A    REPORT 


Kecord  Commissioners 


CITY    OF    BOSTON, 


CONTAINING   THE 


BOSTON  TOWN  RECORDS,  1778  TO  1783. 


BOSTON: 

ROCKWELL    AND    CHURCHILL,    CITY    PRINTERS^ 

1895. 


170156 


[Document  80  —  1895.] 


A   REPORT 


RECORD    COMMISSIONERS. 


The  Twenty-sixth  Report  of  the  Record  Commissioners  is 
a  continuation  of  the  Eighteenth,  and  contains  the  proceed- 
ings of  the  Town  from  1778  through  1783,  concluding  the 
period  of  the  Revolution. 

Wm.   H.   Whitmore, 

City  Registrar. 

Old    Court   House,    Boston. 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 

in  2010  with  funding  from 

Boston  Library  Consortium  Member  Libraries 


http://www.archive.org/details/reportofrecordco26bost 


BOSTON    TOWN    RECORDS. 


[SIXTH    BOOK,  CONTINUED.] 


[151.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants 
of  the  Town  of  Boston,  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned,  in  public 
Town  Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall,  the  5th.  Day  of  March 
Anno  Domini  1778. 

Warrant  for  calling  the'  Meeting  read — ■ 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq.  was  unanimously  chosen 
Moderator  of  this  Meeting. 

The  Comittee  appointed  by  the  Town  the  5th.  of  March  last, 
to  apply  to  a  proper  Gentleman  to  deliver  an  Oration  the  5th.  of 
March  instant,  to  perpetuate  the  Memory  of  the  horrid  Massacre 
perpetrated  on  the  Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770,  by  a  Party 
of  Soldiers  under  the  Command  of  Capt.  Thomas  Preston  of  the 
29th  Regiment- —  Reported  — 

That  having  met  together  several  Times  for  the  Purpose 
mentioned  in  the  Town  Vote,  they  had  unanimously  made  Choice 
of  Jonathan  William  Austin  Esq  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th. 
of  March  instant ;  who  had  accordingly  accepted  of  that  Service. 

The  above  Report  having  been  made  by  the  Chairman  of  the 
Coiniltee,  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be 
accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 

Upon  a  Motion  made  the  Town  took  into  Consideration,  what 
would  be  the  best  Time  to  have  the  Oration  pronounced  ;  as  also 
what  Place  would  be  most  suitable  for  the  Purpose —  Whereupon 

Voted,  That  the  Oration  be  delivered  at  \  past  12  O'Clock,  at 
the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House,  the  Hall  not  being  capacious 
enough  to  receive  the  Inhabitants  that  attend  on  the  Occasion  — 
The  Committee  of  that  Society  having  before  consented,  that  the 
Meeting  House  should  be  made  Use  of  for  this  Purpose. 
Voted  that  Joseph  Greenleaff  Esq. 

The  Honble.  John  Pitts  Esq. 
Ellis  Gray  Esq. 
[153.]     Be   a    Comittee   to   wait   on  Jonathan  William  Austin 
Esq.  &  acquaint  him  that  it  is  the  Desire  of  the  Town,  that  the 
Oration  may  be  delivered  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House,  at  \ 
past  Twelve  O'Clock  this  Day. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  the  Old  Brick  Meeting 
House,  \  past  12  O'Clock. 


2  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Town  met  according  to  Adjournment  \  past  12  O'Cloek  at 
the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  — 

The  Committee  appointed  to  wait  on  Jonathan  William  Austin 
Esq.  to  acquaint  him  with  the  Vote  of  the  Town,  respecting  the 
Time  &  Place  for  the  Delivery  of  an  Oration  —  Reported  — 

That  said  Gentleman  was  ready  to  comply  with  the  Orders  of 
the  Town. 

An  Oration  to  commemorate  the  horrid  Massacre  of  the  Fifth  of 
March  1770,  &  to  impress  upon  the  Minds  of  the  Citizens  the 
ruinous  Tendency  of  stauding  Armies,  being  placed  in  free  & 
populous  Cities  &c.  was  delivered  by  Jonathan  William  Austin 
Esq  to  a  large  &  crowded  Audience  and  received  by  them  with 
great  Applause 

Upon  a  Motion  made  &  seconded 
Voted  that  the  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esq. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Ellis  Gray  Esq. 
Samuel  Barrel  Esq. 
Honble.  John  Pitts  Esq. 
Mr.  Eli  as  Parkman 
Joseph  Greenleaff,  Esq. 
be,  &  hereby  are  appointed  a  Comittee   to  wait   upon  Jonathan 
William  Austin  Esq.  &  in  the  Name  of  the  Town  to  thank  him  for 
the  spirited  &  elegant  Oration  delivered  by  him  at  their  Request, 
in  Commemoration  of  the  horrid  Massacre  [153.]   Perpetrated 
on  the  Evening  of  the  Fifth  of  March  1770,  by  a  Party  of  Soldiers 
of    the  29th.  Regiment,  under  the  Command  of    Captain    Thomas 
Preston,  &  to  request  of  him  a  Copy  thereof  for  the  Press. 
On  a  Motion  made  &  seconded 
Voted  that 
The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams 

Nathaniel  Barber  Esq. 
William  Cooper  Esq. 
John  Pitts  Esq. 
John  Scollay  Esq. 
Jonathan  William  Austin  Esq. 
Perez  Morton  Esq. 
be,  &  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee,  to  apply  to  a  proper 
Gentleman  to  deliver   an  Oration  on  the  5th.  of  March  next,  to 
perpetuate  the  Memory  of  the  horrid  Massacre  perpetrated  on  the 
Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770,  by  a  Party  of  Soldiers  of  the 
29th.  Regiment,  under  the  Command  of  Capt.  Thomas  Preston;  & 
to  impress  on  our  Minds  the  ruinous  Tendency  of  standing  Armies 
being  placed  in  free  &  populous  Cities,  in  a  Time  of  Peace;  & 
the  Necessity  of  such  Noble  Exertions,  in  all  future  Times,  as  the 
Inhabitants  of  the  Town  then  made,  whereby  the  Designs  of  the 
Conspirators  against  the  public  Peace,  may  be  still  frustrated. 

A  small  Collection  was  made  at  this  Meeting  for  M1.  Christopher 
Monk,  a  young  Man  now  languishing  under  a  Wound  he  received 
in  his  Lungs,  by  a  Shot  from  Preston's  bloody  Party  of  Soldiers 
on  the  5th.  of  M:irch  1770. 

Then  the  Meeting;  was  dissolved. 


Boston   Town   Eecords,   1778.  3 

[154.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants 
of  the  Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned,  in  public 
Town  Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  9th  Day 
of  March  Anno  Domini  1778. 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Dr.  Cooper. 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting —  read. 

Sundry  Laws  enjoined  to  be  read  at  this  Meeting  were  accord- 
ingly read 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  by  a  Majority  of  Votes,  &  took  his  Seat  accordingly. 

Mr.  William  Cooper  was  chosen  Town  Clerk  for  the  Year  en- 
suing, by  a  Majority  of  Votes,  &  took  the  Oath  of  Office  for  the 
faithful  Discharge  of  his  Duty,  which  Oath  was  administred  by 
Joseph  Greenleaff  Esq. 

The  Town  proceeded  to  the  Choice  of  nine  Selectmen,  &  the 
Votes  being  brought  in  &  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 
John  Scollay  Esq. 
Samuel  Austin  Esq. 
Oliver  Wendeell  Esq. 
John  Pitts  Esq. 
Capt  Gustavus  Fellows 
Mr.  Harbottle  Dorr 
Thomas  Greenough 
Jonathan  Williams  Esq. 
Capt  John  Preston 
were  chose  Selectmen  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

The  Inhabitants  bro't  in  their  Votes  for  Twelve  Overseers  of 
the  Poor  &  upon  sorting  them  it  appear'd  that 
The  Honble.  William  Phillips  Esq. 
Issac  Smith  Esq. 
[155.]  Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 

Capt  Samuel  Partridge 
Mr.  Samuel  Whitwell 
Mr.  John  White 
Edward  Procter  Esq. 
William  Powell  Esq. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser  junr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esq. 
Mr.  Samuel  Hewes 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
were  chosen  Overseers  of  the  Poor  for  the  year  ensuing. 
Adjourned  to  3  O'Clock  P.M. 

3  'Clock  P.M.  met  according  to  Adjournment 

Upon  a  Motion  made  &  seconded,  the  Question  was  put, 
Whether  Collectors  of  Taxes  shall  be  chose  seperate  from  Con- 
stables —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 

On  a  Motion  made  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  sum  of 
Five  Pounds  shall  be  remitted  out  of  the  Ten  Pounds  Fine  to  such 
Persons  as  shall  be  chose  into  the  Office  of  Constable  for  the  Year 
ensuing  —  Passed  in  the  Negative. 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  twelve  Wardens,  & 
upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 


4  City  Document  No.   80. 

Mr.  Henderson  Inches     -     -     -     -     excused 
Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
Mr.  Harbottle  Dorr 

Mr.  William  Bant D°. 

Mr.  William  McNiel 

Mr.  Nathaniel  Barret 

Capt  Isaac  Phillips 

Mr.  Edward  Grant  -------     D°. 

Mr.  Samuel  Dyer 
[156.]  Mr.  Joseph  Callender 

Mr.  John  May    ■ 
Capt  Jacob  Williams 
were  chosen  Wardens  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  votes  for  a  Comittee  of  Corre- 
spondence, Inspection  &  Safety,  &  upon  Sorting  them  it  appeared 
that 

Capt  Nathaniel  Barber 

Mr.  William  Davis     -----     excused 

Perez  Morton  Esq. 

Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr  -------     D°. 

John  Winthrop  Esq.    ------     D°. 

Capt  John  Simkins 

Mr.  Moses  Grant 

Dr.  Peter  Eoberts 

Capt  Amassa  Davis      ------     D°. 

Mr.  Edward  Green 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
were  chose  a  Comittee  of  Correspondence,  Inspection  and  Safety 
for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Sixteen  Fire  Wards, 
&  upon  sorting  them  it  appear'd,  that 
John  Scollay  Esq. 

Newman  Greenough  Esq.       -     -     -     excused 
William  Cooper  Esq. 
Edward  Proctor  Esq. 
Francis  Shaw  Esq. 
Capt  John  Pulling 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esq. 
Paul  Peviere  Esq. 
Major  Andrew  Symmes 
Thomas  Crafts  P2sq. 
[157.]  Capt  Joseph  Webb 

John  Winthrop  Esq. 
Mr.  Thomas  Tileston 
Capt  Gustavus  Fellows 
Capt  John  Ballard 
Caleb  Davis  Esq. 
were  chose  Fire  Wards  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

The  Inhabitants,  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Town  Treasurer, 
&  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 

David  Jeffries  Esq. 
was  chosen  Town  Treasurer  for  the  Year  ensuing. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1778.  5 

Mess8.  William  Crafts 
John  Lambert  junr. 
Nathaniel  Wales 
Moses  Ayres 
Samuel  Dyer 
were  chose  Fence  Viewers  for  the  Year  ensuing. 
Mess3.  John  Champney 
John  Page 
Edward  Ranger 
Joseph  Ballard 
Benjamin  Page 
William  Ellison 
Joseph  Butler 
Nathan  Bradley 
Elisha  Byles 
William  Moor 
Andrew  Symmes 
Thomas  Uran 
John  Neal 
Nathan  Hancock 
Benjamin  Eustis 
William  Todd 
Henry  Blaisdel 
[158.]     Were  chose  Surveyors  of  Boards  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Capt  Edward  Carnes 
was  chosen  a  Surveyor  of  Hemp  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messs.  William  Andrews 
Joseph  Clark 
Nathan  Green 
Samuel  Bangs 
were  chose  Sealers  of  Leather  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Mr.  Adam  Colson 
was  chose  an  Informer  of  Deer  for  the  Year  ensuing. 
Messs.  Manasseh  Masters 
Joseph  Dyer 
John  Owen 
Joshua  Pico 
Benjamin  Bernard 
Samuel  Haley 
Job  Wheelwright 
Paul  Baxter 
Nathan  Spear 
Edward  Co  well 
Ebenezer  Woodward 
were  chose  Cullers  of  Staves  for  the  Year  ensuing. 
Messs.  Charles  Simpson 
Nathan  Cobbet 
Benjamin  Wheeler 
were  chose  Hogreeves  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Mr.  William  Mc.Fadden  was  chosen  a  Hayward  for  the  Year 
ensuing. 


6  City  Document  No.  <S0> 

Mess5.  John  Sigorney -     Wards  N°.  1. 

John  Lambert-     -.    --i     ------       2. 

John  Cumberfoot       ---------        3. 

John  Coggshell     ---------       4. 

[159.]     Mess5.  Thomas  Baley       ------     Ward  N°.  5. 

Moses  Bradley      ---------        6. 

Elijah  Campbell   ---•.-■■..----.--        7. 

Edward  Gray  ----------        8. 

Daniel  Parks ------        9. 

John  Ballard    ----------     10. 

Stephen  Cleverly  ----------     11. 

John  Lucas      ----------     12. 

were  chose  Scavingers  for  the  Year  ensuing 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  the  Choice  of  Constables  be  re- 
ferred to  the  Adjournment. 

Votes  for  a  County  Treasurer  being  brought  in,  &  sealed  up  in 
Town  Meeting,  were  delivered  to  Mr.  Constable  Thomas,  to  be  by 
him  returned  to  the  Court  of  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace  at 
their  next  Meeting 

The  Inhabitants  bro't  in  their  Votes  for  Twelve  Assessors,  & 
upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that  — 

Deacon  Jonathan  Brown 
Gyles  Harris  Esq. 
Mr.  William  Lowder 
Mr.  George  B.  Gidney 
Deacon  Thomas  Foster 
John  R.  Sigorney 
Edward  Green 
Samuel  Dyer 
Capt  William  Fleet 
Capt  Samuel  Dogget 
were  chosen  Assessors  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

The  Selectmen  were  chose  Surveyors  of  High  Ways  for  the 
Year  ensuing.  — 

Messrs.  John  Lucas 
John  White 
were  chose  Surveyors  of  Wheat  for  the  Year  ensuing. 
[160. J  Jonathan  Williams  Esq. 

Mr  .John  Sweetser 
Mr.  Timothy  Newell 
were  chose  Purchasers  of  Grain  for  the  Year  ensuing  ;  &  they  are 
desired  &  impower'd  to  give  all  needful  Direction  to  the  Keeper 
of  the  Granary ;  respecting  the  Quantity  of  Grain  to  be  sold  & 
affixing  the  Price  thereof  from  time  to  time,  as  Occasion  shall  re- 
quire: And  the  said  Comittee  are"  desired  &  directed  to  cause  all 
the  Grain  belonging  to  the  Town,  to  be  ground  at  the  New  Mills 
near  the  Mill-Bridge 

Mess8.  Thomas  Green 
John  Skinner 
were  chose  Assay  Masters  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Voted,  that 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley 


Boston   Town  Records,   1778.  7 

Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 

Thomas  Daws  Esq. 

Ebenezer  Storer  Esq. 

Mr.  Edward  Green 
be  &  they  hereby  are  appointed  a  Cofhittee  to  audit  the  Accounts 
of  David  Jeffries  Esq.  Treasurer,  &  also  the  Accounts  of  the 
Overseers  of  the  Poor  ;  &  the  said  Comittee  are  impowered,  when 
they  shall  audit  said  Accounts,  to  allow  such  of  the  Overseers, 
as  shall  advance  Money  for  the  Relief  of  the  poor,  Interest  on  all 
such  Sums  from  the  time  so  advanced,  until  they  shall  have  au- 
dited ;  &  they  are  also  desired  to  report  from  time  to  Time,  a  State 
of  the  Treasury  respecting  Debts  and  Credits,  &  on  any  Matters 
that  they  may  think  proper.  / 

Voted  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  Wednesday  next,  10 
O'Clock  Forenoon. 

Wednesday  11th.  of  March,  10  O'Clock  Forenoon,  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment. 

The  Town  brought  in  their  Votes  for  two  Assessors,  &  on 
sorting  them  it  appear'd  that  Mr.  Joseph  Henderson  &  M1'.  Benja- 
min Edes  were  chose  Assessors  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

[161.]  On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  ad- 
journed to  3  O'Clock  P.M. 

3  O'Clock,  P.M.  met  according  to  Adjoui-nment. 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
being  obliged  to  attend  the  House  of  Representatives,  Mr.  Ezekiel 
Price  was  chosen  a  Moderator  Pro.  Temp,  by  a  hand  Vote. 

The  Inhabitants  bro't  in  their  Votes  for  a  Warden  &  upon 
sorting  them  it  appeared,  that  Capt.  Gustavus  Fellows  was  chosen 
a  Warden  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Mr.  Benjamin  Wheeler  chosen  One  of  the  Hogreeves  was 
excused  by  the  Town  from  serving  in  that  Office. 

Mr.  Thomas  Hitchburne  was  chosen  a  Hogreeve  for  the  Year 
ensuing. 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  four  Collectors  of 
Taxes,  &  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 
Mess8.  Josiah  Torry 
Francis  Shaw 
Benjamin  Cudworth 
Benjamin  Sumner 
were  chose  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Voted,  That  the  Assessors  be,  &  hereby  are  impowered  & 
directed  to  set  for  Abatement  of  such  Taxes,  as  they  shall  judge 
reasonable,  on  every  day  of  the  Month  following  the  Delivery  of 
the  Tax  Books  to  the  Collectors,  Lord's  Days  excepted,  &  uo 
longer,  saving  that  they  be  allowed  to  set  the  two  last  Weeks 
in  November,  for  the  Abatement  of  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons,  as 
had  not  an  Opportunity  of  applying  in  the  above  limited  Time,  by 
reason  of  their  being  out  of  the  State  ;  at  which  time  they  are  also 
allowed  [162.]  And  impowered  to  abate  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons 
as  may  have  died  insolvent  before  the  last  Da}'  of  November. 


8  City  Document  No.   80. 

Voted,  that  the  Consideration  of  Schoolmasters  Salaries,  &  all 
other  Salaries  &  Grants,  be  referred  over  to  the  next  May  Meet- 
ing. 

On  a  Motion  made, 

Voted,  that  the   Consideration  of  Collectors  Premiums   be  re- 
ferred to  next  May  Meeting. 
On  a  Motion  made, 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Thomas  Daws  Esq. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Mr.  Joseph  Henderson 
Samuel  Barret  Esq. 
Mr.  Gibbins  Sharp 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  &  report  at  the  Adjournment,  what 
Sum  of  Money  it  will  be  necessary  to  raise   by  a  Tax  to  defray 
the  Expences  of  the  Year  ensuing. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant,  Viz:  "To  consider  —  "Whether, 
agreeable  to  au  Application  of  the  House  of  Representatives, 
some  more  effectual  Measures  ma}-  be  taken  for  the  immediate 
Collecting  the  State  Tax  "  —  was  read. 

Whereupon,  the  Collectors  were  called  upon,  when  they  made  it 
appear  to  the  Town,  that  they  had  paid  in  to  the  State  Treasury, 
the  whole  of  the  State  Tax,  which  had  been  committed  to  them  to 
collect  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant,  Viz  :  "  To  consider  whether,  agree- 
able to  a  late  Act  of  the  General  Court,  a  Coinittee  shall  not 
now  be  chosen  to  make  Provision  for  the  Families  of  such  non- 
commissioned Officers  &  Soldiers,  as  have  engaged  in  the  Con- 
tinental Service"  —  was  read  &  Considered,  whereupon 
[163.]     Voted,  that 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esq. 
Mr.  Henderson  Inches 
Thomas  Daws  Esq. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 
Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
be   a   Comittee   to  consider   &   report  on  this  Matter  at  the  Ad- 
journment. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant,  Viz  :  "  What  Method  shall  be  taken 
to  obtain  Relief,  in  regard  to  the  present  extraordinary  high  Price 
of  Provisions,  &  other  necessary  Articles  of  Life?"  was  read  — 
Whereupon, 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Whitwell 
Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 
Samuel  Barret  Esq. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barret 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
be   a  Committee  to  consider  &  report  at  the  Adjournment  what 
they  judge  best  to  be  done. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  Monday  next,  the 
16th.  of  March  instant,  10  O'Clock  Forenoon. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1778.  9 

March  16th.  10  O'Clock  A.M.  Town  met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment. 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Choice  of  Clerks  of  the  Mar- 
ket be  referred  over  to  the  Adjournment. 

The  Selectmen  acquainted  the  Town,  that  they  had  met  the 
Physicians,  who  declared  their  Readiness  to  Innoculate  the  poor 
Inhabitants,  &  attend  them  Gratis,  but  expected  that  the  neces- 
sary Medicines  should  be  found  them. 

Voted,  that  the  Town  will  pay  the  Expence  that  may  arise  by 
the  Poor  Inhabitants,  who  shall  be  innoculated,  being  supplied 
with  Medicines,  to  carry  them  through  the  Small  Pox. 

[164.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  Method 
shall  be  taken  to  obtain  Relief  in  regard  to  the  present  extraordi- 
nary high  Price  of  Provisions,  &  other  necessary  Articles  of  Life  " 
—  Report 

That  it  is  their  opinion,  that  One  Great  Reason  of  the  present 
Excessive  Price  of  Provisions  in  this  Town  arises  from  the 
Averice  Injustice  &  Inhumanity  of  certain  Persons  within  Twenty 
Miles  of  it,  who  purchase  great  Part  of  the  same  of  Farmers  living 
at  a  greater  Distance,  &  put  an  exorbitant  Advance  upon  it, 
which  our  Necessities  oblige  us  to  give ;  while  they,  having  mon- 
opolized it,  deal  it  out  to  us  in  such  Quantities  as  they  please,  at 
a  Time  when  the  necessary  Provision  making  for  the  Army,  &  the 
Consumption  by  so  large  a  Body  of  the  Enemies  Troops  in  the 
Vicinity  deprive  us  of  the  natural  Relief  we  should  otherwise  have 
received  from  the  uncommon  Plenty,  with  which  Heaven  has 
crowned  the  Year. 

That  to  remedy  so  great  an  Evil  &  to  save  the  Town  from  utter 
Destruction,  they  are  of  Opinion  that  the  following  things  ought 
to  be  attempted,  &  if  attended  with  Success  would  prove  effectual. 

First — -That  a  decent,  yet  spirited  Memorial  be  presented  to  the 
General  Assembly,  setting  forth  the  unexampled  Cruelty  & 
Oppression,  under  which  the  Town  labours  from  certain  Persons 
in  the  Country,  in  Addition  to  their  other  Distresses,  praying  their 
Interposition,  &  humbly  proposing  as  (in  the  Opinion  of  the 
Town)  the  most  efficacious  Remedy,  that  as  severe  a  Law,  in 
Addition  to  those  already  in  Being,  as  can  be  framed,  may  be  en- 
acted against  the  inhuman  &  unrighteous  Practice  of  monopolizing 
the  Necessaries  of  Life,  &  forestalling  this  Market.  — 

Secondly  —  That  an  Agreement  be  earnestly  recommended  to 
the  more  opulent  Inhabitants  of  the  Town,  to  be  entered  into  by 
Subscription,  for  the  Relief  of  the  more  indigent,  that  in  order  to 
reduce  the  Price,  so  far  as  lessing  the  Demand  will  do  it,  they  will 
on  no  Occasion  whatever,  have  more  than  Two  Dishes  of  Meat  on 
the  same  Day  on  their  Table  —  and  that  they  will  avoid  the  Use 
of  Poultry,  &  every  other  Superfluity  as  much  as  possible. 

[165.]  Thirdly  —  That  the  Inhabitants  agree  universally  to 
make  two  Dinners  p  Week  on  Fish,  if  to  be  had. 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  &  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  —  "Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affirmative  —  Also 

Voted,  that  Mess8.  Joseph  Barrel 


10  City  Document  No.  80. 

Thomas  Walley 

Edward  Carries 

John  Reed 

Major  Samuel  White 

Capt  John  Byles 

Ebenezer  Hancock  Esq. 
be  a  Committee  to  draw  up  an   Agreement  conformable    to   the 
foregoing  Report,  &  that  they  endeavour  to  procure  Subscriptions 
to  the  same. 

Voted,  that  the  foregoing  Committee  be  desired  to  prepare  a 
Petition  to  the  General  Court,  relative  to  Forestallers  of  the 
Market,  &  that  they  report  the  same  at  the  Adjournment. 

The  Committee  appointed  "  to  consider  &  report  at  the  Ad- 
journment, what  Sums  of  Money  it  may  be  necessary  to  grant  for 
the  Payment  of  the  Schoolmasters,  for  the  relief  of  the  Poor,  and 
defraying  other  necessary  Charges  "  —  Report, 

That  in  a  Review  of  the  Charges  of  Supplies  to  the  Aims- 
House,  &  to  the  poor  of  the  Town  in  the  several  Wards,  for  the 
Sis  preceding  Months,  &  on  the  most  reasonable  Estimate  of  the 
Sums  necessary  (considering  the  great  Decline  of  Trade)  to  the 
Continuance  of  said  Supplies  for  the  Year  ensuing,  as  well  as  to 
the  Carrying  great  Numbers  of  the  Poor  wholly,  &  others  partly, 
through  the  Expences  of  the  Small  Pox  —  as  also  from  a  View  of 
furnishing  the  Assessors  with  a  sufficient  Fund  for  making  Abate- 
ments in  Taxes,  pursuant  to  a  Vote  of  the  Town  for  that  purpose, 
to  such  Persons  as  shall  make  it  appear  that  they  have  been 
aggrieved  in  the  same  ;  and  of  making  provision  for  the  Payment 
of  Schoolmasters,  &  for  other  [166.]  Necessary  Charges  ;  they 
are  of  Opinion,  that  the  Sum  of  Ten  Thousand  Pounds  will  be 
necessary  for  said  Purposes  ;  &  that  it  is  on  every  Account  most 
eligible  that  the  same  be  granted,  assessed  &  collected  as  speedily 
as  possible. 

The  foregoing  Report  being  read  &  considered  —  the  Question 
was  put — Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted — Passed  in  the 
Affirmative. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ten  thousand  Pounds  be  raised  by  a 
Tax  upon  Polls  &  Estates  within  this  Town  for  the  Relief  of  the 
Poor  &  defraying  other  necessary  Charges  arising  within  the 
Town  the  ensuing  Year. 

The  Committee  appointed  "  To  consider  what  is  necessary  to  be 
done  respecting  the  Families  of  the  Non-commissioned  Officers  & 
Soldiers,  who  have  engaged  in  the  Continental  Army,  in  Con- 
formity to  a  Resolve  of  the  General  Court,  passed  September  the 
29th.  —  "  Report, 

That  a  Commissary  be  immediately  appointed,  whose  Business 
shall  be  to  provide  a  Quantity  of  Indian  Meal,  Rye  Meal,  Beef, 
Pork,  Rice  &  Wood,  &  dispose  of  the  same  to  the  Families  of  the 
Non-commissioned  Officers  &  Soldiers  in  Town,  who  have  in- 
listed  into  the  Continental  Army,  agreeable  to  the  aforesaid  Re- 
solve ;  —  and  that  the  Sum  of  four  thousand  Pounds  be  assessed 
immediately  for  that  Purpose  upon  the  Inhabitants  in  Addition  to 
the  Ten  thousand  Pounds,  already  Voted  to  defray  the  Common 


Boston  Town   Records,  1778.  11 

Expences  of  the  Town,  the  ensuing  Year;  &  that  the  Town 
Treasurer  be  directed  &  impowered,  to  pay  the  same  unto  the 
Commissary  that  shall  be  chosen,  as  the  said  Monies  are  paid  into 
the  Treasury. 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  it  was  moved,  &  the 
Question  accordingly  put  —  Whether  the  farther  Consideration 
thereof  shall  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment  —  which  passed  in 
the  Affirmative. 

[167.]  On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  he  Ad- 
journed to  Tuesday  next,  being  the  17th.  instant,  10  O'Clock 
Forenoon. 

Tuesday  the  17th.  Day  of  March,  10  O'Clock  Forenoon,  Town 
met  according  to  Adjournment. 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  is 
necessary  to  be  done  by  the  Town  respecting  the  Families  of  the 
Non-commissioned  Officers  &  Soldiers,  who  have  engaged  in  the 
Continental  army  &c  —  was  again  read  &  considered,  &  the 
Question  being  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affirmative.  —  Also 

Voted,  that  Messrs.  John  Sigorney      -     -     -     -     Wards  N°.     1 . 

John  Bnllard   ---------     2. 

Nathaniel  Hitch burne     ------     3. 

Gibbins  Sharp       --------4. 

Thomas  Hitchburne 5. 

Joseph  Hall      ---------     6. 

Nathan  Frazier --7. 

Benjamin  Jepson  --------8. 

Jeremiah  Belknap      -------     9. 

Thomas  Daws  Esq.    -------  10. 

Hermon  Brimmer       -     - 11. 

Thomas  Baley       -- 12. 

be  a  Committee,  with  such  Persons  as  they  shall  think  proper  to 
invite,  to  take  a  Memorandum  of  the  Names  of  the  Non-comis- 
sioned  Officers  &  Soldiers,  who  went  from  Boston  into  the  Con- 
tinental Army  ;  the  Town  for  which  they  went,  &,  when  it  can  be 
ascertained,  the  Company  &  Regiment  into  which  they  enlisted  ; 
what  Family  they  now  have  in  Boston  to  be  provided  for,  agrea- 
ble  to  an  Act  of  the  General  Court,  passed  1777 

Messs.  Abraham  Hayward 

Clement  Collins  junr. 
were  chosen  Surveyors  of  Boards  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

[168.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz  :  "  To  consider  & 
determine  what  is  proper  to  be  done  relative  to  the  Proceeds  of 
the  damaged  Fire  Arms,  that  were  put  into  the  Hands  of  a  Com- 
mittee for  purchasing  new  Arms  for  the  Use  of  the  Militia  "  —  was 
read,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmeu  be  a  Committee  to  make  Inquiry,  & 
report  at  the  Adjournment. 

The  Committee  who  received  two  hundred  and  fifty  one  Pounds 
seven  Shillings  &  Two  pence  from  the  General  Court,  for  the  de- 
fective Fire  Arms,  belonging  to  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of 


12  City  Document  No.  80. 

Boston,  for  the  Purpose  of  purchasing  Arms  —  Report  the  follow- 
ing Account,  Viz. 

To  Cash  paid  for  28  Fire  Arms      -     -     -     -     -    Dr.  £122  -  4    — 
Ballance  due  to  the  Town     -------  256-3-2 


By  Cash  received  for  Fire  Arms  sold  - 
By  Cash  from  the  Town  Treasurer 


£378  - 

.   127 
251  - 

7-2 

7-2 

£378  -  7  -  2 


Boston  March  9th.  1778 

Errors  excepted 

John  Marston,  Chairman 
The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read. 

Voted,  that  Messs.  John  Marston 
Joseph  Barrel 
Capt  Jacob  Williams 
Mr.  Martin  Brimmer 
Capt  Joseph  Webb 
be  a  Committee  to  lay  out  the  foregoing  Ballance  of  £256  -  3  -  2 
in  Capt  Marston's  Hands,  of  the  Produce  of  damaged  Arms  sold, 
in  good  Fire  Arms,  to  supply  such  of  the  Militia  in  this  Town,  as 
are  without  them,  they  paying  for  the  same  ;  &  to  continue  pur- 
chasing with  the  Money  received  for  what  they  sell. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  Monday  next  22d.  of 
March  instant,  3'Clock  P.M. 

[169.]  Monday  22d.  March  1778,  3  O'Clock  Afternoon,  met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  four  Members  of  the 
Committee  of  Correspondence  &c,  &  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared, 
that 

Messs.  Joseph  Henderson 
Joseph  Hall 
Capt  William  Brown 
Mr.  Foster  Condy 
were  chosen  Members  of  the  Committee  of  Correspondence,  In- 
spection &  Safety  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Mess8.  Samuel  Greenleaff 
George  Hamlin 
were  chose  Hogreeves  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Newman  Greenough  having  on  Account  of  his  Age  desired  to 
be  excused  from  serving  as  a  Fire  Ward,  he  was  accordingly  ex- 
cused from  serving. 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  & 
hereby  are  given  to  Newman  Greenough  Esq.  for  his  long  &  faith- 
ful Services,  as  a  Fire  Ward. 

The  Inhabitants  having  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Fire  Ward 
it  appeared  that 

Mr.  John  Lowell 
was  chosen  a  Fire  Ward  for  the  Year  ensuing. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1778.  13 

The  Committee  appointed  to  prepare  a  Draught  of  a  Petition  to 
the  General  Court,  relative  to  Forestallers  of  the  Market  &c  — 
Reported  the  following  Draught,  Viz. 

To  the  Honble.  the  Council  &  House  of  Representatives  of  the 
State  of  Massachusetts  Bay, 

The  Memorial  of  the  Town  of  Boston  humbly  sheweth, 

That  their  Distresses  are  great  on  Account  [170.]  Of 
the  very  extraordinary  Price  of  every  Necessary  of  Life  from 
the  Country,  that  although  the  Charge  of  raising  the  Produce 
of  the  Land  is  but  little  greater  on  an}T  Account  than  hereto- 
fore, nor  so  great,  if  we  advert  to  the  general  Custom,  with 
respect  to  the  principal  Article  Labour,  the  Farmer  has  been  in 
of  paying  One  Bushel  of  Corn  for  a  Days  Work,  whereas  the 
Nominal  Sum  is  Eighteen  Shillings  lawful  Money,  yet  three  Pecks 
of  Corn  will  pay  it ;  and  altho'  the  Blessing  of  Heaven  has 
produced  an  unusual  abundance,  yet  they  are  pained  to  observe, 
they  are  obliged  to  give  eight  times  as  much  for  their  Provisions 
as  they  formerly  gave  ;  and  considering  the  Sacrifice  they  have 
made  of  their  Trade  &  Substance  to  the  General  Good,  which  can 
easily  be  proved  to  have  operated  hitherto  entirely  for  the  Good 
of  the  Landholder,  they  are  constrained  to  say  this  cruel  Con- 
duct is  without  a  Paralel  in  the  History  of  Mankind  !  —  Your 
Memorialists  would  by  no  Means  extend  this  to  the  Country 
indiscriminately,  as  there  are  some  Instances  of  Brotherly  Kind- 
ness, happy  for  this  Town  were  they  more  common. 

Your  Memorialists  are  sure  their  uncommon  Sufferings  are 
greatly  encreased  by  the  more  than  Brutish  Conduct  of  those 
Wretches  within  a  few  Miles  of  this  Capital  known  in  the  odious 
Character  of  Forestallers,  who,  lost  to  the  Feelings  of  Humanity, 
purchase  from  those  at  a  Distance,  &  retail  it  out  to  these  un- 
happy distressed  Inhabitants,  at  a  Price  suited  to  their  unfeel- 
ing Hearts,  &  many  of  them  add  Insult  to  their  Extortion. 

Your  Memorialists  apprehensive  it  will  be  impossible  for  them 
to  subsist,  unless  a  Stop  is  put  to  so  merciless  and  distinctive  a 
Practice,  pray  your  Honors,  that  an  effectual  Law  may  be  enacted 
against  this  Species  of  Wretches,  &  the  Town  thereby  receive 
some  Alleviation  to  this  particular  Distress. 

[171.]  The  foregoing  Memorial  being  read  &  considered  the 
same  was  accepted  by  the  Town,  &  the  Selectmen  directed  to  sign 
the  same,  &  present  it  to  the  General  Court 

Mr.  Edward  Grant  &  Mr.  William  Bant  having  desired  to  be 
excused  from  serving  as  Wardens,  for  Reasons  offered  to  the 
Town  —  they  were  accordingly  excused. 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to 
Fryday  next,  3  O'Clock  P.M. 

Fryday  March  27th.  3  O'Clock  afternoon,  Town  met  according 
to  Adjournment. 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
being  absent,  the  Town  made  Choice  of  Mr.  Ezekiel  Price  as 
Moderator  Pro  Temp,  by  a  Hand  Vote  —  Mr.  Price  not  being 
able  to  attend. 


14  City  Document  No-   80. 

Benjamin  Kent  Esq.  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  Pro 
Temp,  by  a  Hand  Vote. 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  is 
necessary  to  be  done  by  the  Town,  respecting  the  Families  of  the 
Non-commissioned  Officers  &  Soldiers,  who  have  engaged  in  the 
Continental  Army  in  Conformity  to  a  Resolve  of  the  General 
Court,  passed  September  the  29th  —  was  again  read,  &  being 
duely  considered,  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall 
be  accepted?  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative.  —  Also, 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  four  thousand  Pounds  be  raised,  by  a 
Tax  upon  Polls  &  Estates  within  this  Town  for  the  Supply  of  the 
Families  of  the  Non-commissioned  Officers  &  Soldiers  in  the  Con- 
tinental Army,  in  Addition  to  the  Ten  thousand  pounds  already 
Voted  for  the  other  Services  of  the  Town,  agreeable  to  the  Report 
of  the  Committee. 

The  Town  bro't  in  their  Votes  for  a  Commissary  to  supply 
the  Families  of  the  Soldiers  enlisted  into  the  Continental  Army 
agreable  to  the  Report  of  the  Committee,  &  upon  sorting  them  it 
appeared,  that 

[172.]  Capt.  John  Simkins 

was  chosen  Commissary  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid. 

Voted,  that  David  Jeffries  Esq.  Town  Treasurer  be,  &  he  hereby 
is  impowered  &  directed  to  borrow  upon  interest  on  the  Credit  of 
the  Town,  four  thousand  Pounds  Voted  to  be  assessed  on  the  In- 
habitants, for  the  purpose  of  supplying  Soldiers  Families,  &  that 
he  pay  the  same,  as  it  shall  be  borrowed  to  Capt.  John  Simkins 
chosen  a  Commissiary  to  supply  the  Families  of  the  Continental 
Soldiers  in  this  Town. 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  two  Wardens,  & 
upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 

Mr.  Benjamin  Jepson 

Capt.  William  Brown 

were  chosen  Wardens  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  &  Things  which  remain  unfinished  be 
referred  over  to  the  General  Town  Meeting  in  May  next,  then  to 
be  considered  &  acted  upon. 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned  in  public  Town 
Meeting  assembled,  at  Faneuil  Hall,  on  Saturday  the  14th.  of 
March  Anno  Domini  1778  —  10  O'Clock  A.M. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read. 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  &  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator,  and  the  same  being  bro't  in  and  sorted  it 
appeared  that, 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esq. 
was  chosen,  who  took  his  place  accordingly. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz.  "To  consider  and  determine 
what  is  proper  to  be  done  with  respect  to  the  Small  Pox,  [173.] 


Boston   Town  Records,   1778.  15 

Which,  in  the  Righteous  Providence  of  God,  appears  likely  to  take 
a  sudden  Spread  in  this  Town  " —  was  read. 

The  Selectmen  laid  before  the  Town  a  State  of  the  Small  Pox, 
by  which  it  appeared,  that,  besides  those  who  had  been  removed 
to  the  Hospitals  there  were  about  fifteen  Families  now  visited 
with  that  Distemper  —  and  from  the  Accounts  given  by  others, 
there  was  reason  to  conclude  that,  a  greater  Number  of  Houses 
was  infected. 

It  being  suggested  that  D1'.  Danforth  a  Physician  of  this  Town 
had  inoculated  a  Number  of  the  Inhabitants 
Voted  that  Col :  Daws 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Ellis  Gray  Esq. 
be  a  Committee  to  confer  with  Dr.  Danforth  relative  to  said  Sug- 
gestion. 

The  forenamed  Committee  having  conferred  with  Dr.  Danforth, 
Reported,  that  the  Doctor  had  assured  them,  that  there  was  no 
foundation  for  the  Report  —  that  he  had  not  inoculated  any  One 
himself,  &  knew  of  no  One  that  had  been  inoculated  by  any  other 
Physician. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  4  O'Clock  in  the 
Afternoon. 

4  O'Clock  P.M.  Town  met  according  to  Adjournment 

It  having  been  suggested,  that  an  Order  had  passed  the  HonbIe„ 
Board,  or  General  Court,  permitting  a  Number  of  Col:  Crafts 
Regiment  of  the  Train  to  be  inoculated  in  this  Town,  the  Deputy 
Secretary  Mr.  Avery  was  desired  to  attend  the  Meeting. 

The  Deputy  Secretary  attended,  &  laid  the  following  Resolve, 
which  passed  the  General  Assembly  the  12th.  Instant,  before  the 
Town,  Viz. 

Resolved,  that  Dr.  Joseph  Gardner,  be,  &  hereby  is  impowered 
to  improve  the  Hospital  at  West  Boston  for  the  [174.]  Sole 
purpose  of  innoculating  such  of  the  Soldiers  in  Col.  Crafts  Regi- 
ment, as  may  be  willing  to  receive  the  Small  Pox  under  the 
Direction  of  the  Selectmen  of  the  Town  of  Boston,  who  are  hereby 
directed  to  put  said  Hospital  under  such  Regulation,  as  has  by 
them  been  heretofore  established,  &  to  continue  their  Vigilance  to 
prevent  the  spreading  of  said  Distemper ;  &  Col;  Tho3„  Crafts  is 
hereby  directed  to  afford  said  Selectmen  such  Guards  &  other 
Assistance  is  his  power ;  as  said  Selectmen  shall  require. 

The  Town  having  duely  considered  what  had  been  laid  before 
them  relative  to  the  Small  Pox,  it  was  moved  that  the  Sense  of 
the  Town  be  taken  theron,  by  the  following  Question  being  put, 
Viz.  "  Whether  there  is,  in  their  Opinion,  a  rational  Probability 
that,  under  present  Circumstances,  the  Spread  of  the  Small  Pox 
may  be  prevented,"  &  the  same  being  put,  it  appeared  to  be  the 
Sense  of  the  Town,  that  it  could  not. 

It  was  then  moved,  &  the  Question  accordingly  put, — 
"Whether  such  Persons,  Inhabitants  of  this  Town,  who  have  not 
had  the  Small  Pox,  may  be  permitted  immediately  to  innoculate  " 
—  Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 


16  City  Document  No.   80. 

It  was  also  moved  &  accordingly  Voted,  that  the  Physicians  of 
this  Town  be  desired,  that  they  do  not  innoculate  any  Persons  for 
the  Small  Pox  after  the  24th.  of  March  instant. 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  acquaint  the  Physicians 
of  the  Town  with  the  preceeding  Vote,  &  that  a  strict  Compliance 
with  the  same  is  expected  from  them. 

Then  the  Meeting:  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders,  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned,  in  public  Town 
Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  4th.  day  of  May 
Anno  Domini  1778. 

[175.]     Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting     -     -     -     -     read  — 
The  Inhabitants  were  desired   to  withdraw  and  bring   in  their 
Votes,  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  &  the  same  being  bro't 
in  &  sorted,  it  appeared,  that, 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq  was  unanimously  chosen  Mod- 
erator. 

Several  Resolves  of  the  General  Assembly  of  this  State,  rela- 
tive to  new  Draughts  of  Men,  —  were  la-id  before  the  Town  by 
Col:  Hatch,  &  read  by  their  Orders. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz.  "  To  consider  &  determine 
upon  a  Method  for  raising  in  the  most  expeditious  &  least  burden- 
some Way,  the  Eighty  Six  Men  ordered  by  the  General  Assembly 
of  this  State,  to  be  draughted  from  the  Boston  Regiment,  to  serve 
in  the  Continental  Army,  or  otherwise  to  act  therein  as  they  may 
judge  best," — was  read,  &  after  some  Consideration  had  thereon  — 
It  was  moved  &  carried,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  take 
this  Matter  into  Consideration,  &  to  report  what  they  shall  judge 
to  be  best  for  the  Town  to  do  thereon,  at  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting 

Voted,  that  Caleb  Davis  Esq. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Thomas  Daws  Esq 
Col:  John  Hatch 
Mr.  Henderson  Inches 
Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 
Col:  Thomas  Tyng 
Major  Edward  Procter 
Mr.  Hermon  Brimmer 
Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 
Major  Joseph  Webb 
Mr.  John  Reed 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
[176.]     Be  a  Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid 

A  Letter  from  General  Heath  urging  the  immediate  Cleansing 
of  the  Town  from  the  Small  Pox  &c  was  read  —  and  the  Inhabi- 
tants afterwards  desired  to  proceed  in  cleansing  their  Houses,  with 
all  possible  Dispatch. 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to 
Tuesday  the  6th:  instant,  10  O'Clock  in  the  Forenoon. 


Boston   Town  Records,  1778„  17 

Tuesday  May  6th.  10  O'Clock  Forenoon  met  according  to  Ad- 
journment 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  to  consider  at  large  the 
State  of  the  Town  ;  their  Proportion  of  the  Army,  &  the  easiest  & 
most  expeditious  Manner  to  raise  the  Eighty  Six  Men  now  ordered 
by  the  General  Court,  without  adverting  (at  this  time)  to  the 
Propriety  or  Impropriety  of  the  Measure,  with  respect  to  this 
Town,  —  Report 

That  the  easiest  way  will  be  by  giving  them  a  handsome 
Bounty. 

They  therefore  propose  to  the  Town,  that  a  Bounty  of  Sixty 
pounds  lawful  Money,  including  the  State  Bounty  —  mentioned  in 
the  Resolve,  be  given  to  every  person  inlisting  to  make  up  Xhe 
Number  of  Fifty  men,  ordered  to  join  General  Washington  for 
Nine  Months  ;  &  a  Bounty  of  Thirty  Pounds  to  every  Person  in- 
listing  to  make  up  the  Number  Thirty  Six  men,  ordered  to  the 
North  River  for  Eight  Months,  who  are  considered  as  a  Detach- 
ment from  the  Militia. 

These  Bounties  will  amount  to  four  thousand  &  Eighty  pounds, 
to  raise  which  the  Committee  advise,  that  about  Six  hundred 
pounds  now  in  the  hands  of  the  Town  Treasurer  for  this  purpose, 
&  also  the  Sum  of  about  four  hundred  pounds,  generously 
raised  by  tbe  Independent  Company  on  this  Occasion,  be  immedi- 
ately delivered  to  Col:  Hatch,  &  that  the  remaining  [177.] 
Sum  of  about  three  thousand  &  Eighty  pounds,  be  borrowed  by 
Subscription,  which  Sum  shall  be  added  to  the  next  Town  Tax  & 
for  the  Repayment  thereof  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  give 
his  Notes  accordingly. 

That  Col:  Hatch  be  desired  to  appoint  some  proper  Persons  to 
beat  up  for  Voluntiers  until  next  Tuesday,  on  which  Day  the  several 
Companies  to  be  raised,  &  the  Deficiency  (if  any  at  that  time)  be 
then  draughted  from  the  Companies  :  The  Committee  think  it  of 
very  great  Consequence,  that  the  several  Companies  be  enjoined, 
on  no  Terms,  &  in  no  way,  to  encrease  the  Bounty  above  men- 
tioned, as  now  the  Men  will  be  all  on  the  same  footing,  &  knowing 
the  Extent  of  the  Bounty,  those  who  intend  to  enlist  will  do  it 
immediately. 

The  Committee  would  farther  advise  (should  the  Col:  be  re- 
duced to  the  disagreeable  Necessity  of  draughting  men,  and  any 
persons  so  draughted  should  pay  their  Fines)  that  the  Fines 
so  raised  should  be  put  into  the  Treasury,  in  order  to  make  up 
the  Sum  now  promised  by  the  Town,  &  not  as  heretofore  has 
been  the  Custom,  divide  it  among  those  who  should  afterwards 
inlist. 

The  Committee  think  it  highly  expedient,  that  due  Care  should 
be  now  taken  to  ascertain  the  Men  raised,  that  they  are  for  this 
Toivn.  Had  this  been  done  in  the  late  Levies,  this  Town  had 
been  delivered  from  this  oppressive  Draught,  &  saved  a  very  large 
Sum  of  Money. 

The  Town  will  do  well  to  consider,  that  by  the  present  Resolve 
of  the  General  Court,  no  man  from  this  Town,  or  any  other,  is 
allowed  to  inlist  for  any  Town,  but  that  they  belong  to  ;  so  that 


18  City  Document  No.   8u. 

those   who    may   expect    larger   Advantages,    will    assuredly   be 
disappointed. 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  &  considered,  it  was 
Voted,  that  the  same  be  accepted  —  &  that  the  Committee  be 
desired  to  sit  again  &  report  further  at  the  next  Meeting.  —  Also 

[178.]    Voted,  thatMr.  William  Davis 
Dr.  John  Loring 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
,Mr.  Daniel  Parker 
Mr.  William  Gooch 
be  a  Coinittee  to  procure  Subscriptions  agreable  to  the  foregoing 
Report. 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Town  will  repay  to  Col: 
Hatch,  whatever  Sum  it  may  be  necessary  for  him  to  pay,  as 
Charges  incurred  by  raising  of  the  Men. 

Voted,  that  David  Jeffries  Esq.  Town  Treasurer  be,  &  he 
hereby  is  empowered  &  directed  to  borrow  on  the  Credit  of  the 
next  Tax  upon  Polls  &  Estates  within  this  Town,  a  Sum,  not 
exceeding  thirty  three  hundred  Pounds,  for  the  purpose  mentioned 
in  the  foregoing  Report,  for  the  Repayment  of  which  he  is  to  give 
his  negotiable  Notes. 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in  public 
Town  Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall,  on  Wednesday  the  13 
day  of  May  Anno  Domini  1778. 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Reverend  Mr.  Wight. 

The'  Precept  &  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting      -     -     -     read 

Sundry  Laws read 

The  Town  having  determined  to  chuse  Seven  Persons  to  repre- 
sent them  in  the  Great  &  General  Court  or  Assembly,  to  be 
held  at  the  Town  House  in  Boston,  upon  Wednesday  the  27tl1.  Day 
current  —  the  Inhabitants  were  accordingly  directed  to  withdraw, 
&  bring  in  their  Votes  for  Seven  Representatives,  &  then  it  was 
[179.]  Declared  by  the  Selectmen,  that  no  Votes  will  be  received 
but  such  as  are  unfolded,  &  that  they  propose  the  Poll  shall  be 
closed  at  12  O' Clock.  i 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  Seven  Representatives  the 
Number  of  the  same  was  found  to  be  three  hundred  &  forty- 
five  —  &  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  the  following  Persons 
were  Chose,  Viz. 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq.      -     - '  -     335. 

The  Honh,e.  William  Phillips  Esq. 227. 

The  Honble.  John  Pitts  Esq. 342. 

Oliver  Wendell  Esq.     --------     337. 

Caleb  Davis  Esq.    ---------     334. 

Ellis  Gray  Esq.  .---------     329. 

John  Lowell  Esq. 221. 

The  Choice  of  Representatives  being  over,  &  declared  by  the 
Selectmen,  the   Inhabitants  were   directed  to  withdraw  &  bring  in 


Boston   Town   Eecords,  1778.  19 

their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  in  order  that  the 
Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  other  Affairs  mentioned  in 
the  Warrant ;  accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew,  &  bro't  in 
their  Votes,  &  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq. 
was  chosen. 

Adjourned  to  3  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon. 

3  O'Clock  in 'the  Afternoon,  met  according  to  Adjournment. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz.  "To  consider  what  Regula- 
tions are  necessary  to  be  made  respecting  Faneuil  Hall  Market "  — 
was  read,  &  after  some  Debate,  it  was 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  give  Orders  that  the  Doors  of  the 
several  Arches  in  Faneuil  Hall  Market,  be  taken  off  the  Hinges, 
&  that  the  Market  House  be  kept  open  &  free  from  Incumbrances, 
till  the  farther  Orders  of  the  Town. 

[180.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz.  "  To  consider 
whether  Instructions  shall  be  given  to  the  Representatives  that 
may  be  chosen  "  —  was  read,  &  the  Question  being  accordinly  put 
—  Passed  in  the  Negative. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  is  proper  to  be  done 
by  the  Town,  on  their  Voting  to  furnish  the  eighty  Sis  Men 
ordered  to  be  draughted,  as  their  Proportion  of  the  Continental 
Army  —  Reported  the  following  Draught  of  a  Memorial  to  the 
General  Assembly  —  Viz. 

To  the  Honble.  the  Council  &  House  of  Representatives  of  the 
State  of  Massachusetts'  Bay  in  General  Court  assembled. 
May  it  please  your  Honors. 

The  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston  beg  leave  to  state  to 
your  Honors  their  Situation  with  Regard  to  the  Continental  Army. 

The  Quota  assigned  this  Town  for  the  fifteen  Battalions  for  the 
State,  was  one  Seventh  of  the  Inhabitants  the  Return  made  & 
sworn  to  by  the  Selectmen  was  2852  including  188  Molattoes  & 
Negroes ;  since  which  our  Numbers  are  so  decreased,  that  the 
Training  Bands  &  Alarm  Lists,  by  a  Return  from  Col:  Hatch 
taken   last  Winter,  was  only  1423. 

We  have  in  the  Continental  Army  527,  Rank  &  File  (all  of 
those  who  have  Families  are  now  supplied  by  the  Town  at  the  reg- 
ulated Price  85  Officers,  106  Artificers,  14  Quarter  Masters,  & 
other  Officers  in  the  Continental  Department  (exclusive  of  near 
300  in  the  Continental  Navy)  these  we  can  prove  by  an  exact 
Return,  now  in  the  Possession  of  Col:  Hatch,  and  a  Number  of 
others,  whose  Regiment  &  Company  cannot  be  ascertained  at 
present,  those  together  make  the  Number  above  [181.]  1000 
Men,  without  the  87  now  ordered,  or  any  regard  had  to  Col: 
Craft's  Regiment,  many  of  which  belong  to  this  Town  —  Besides, 
such  have  been  the  frequent  Draughts  from  the  Militia  for  short 
Terms  of  Duty,  that  almost  every  Man  has  served  Twice. 

We  trust  the  Court  will  not  take  Advantage  of  the  Omission  of 
the  Place  of  Abode,  &  other  Requisites  in  the  Return  of  such  Men 
belonging  to  this  Town,  as  are  inlisted  into  the  Continental  Army, 
for  this  Omission  cannot  in  Justice  be  charged  on  this  Town  ;  for, 


20  City  Document  No.   80. 

the  inlisting,  the  mustering,  &  the  returning  Officers,  are  all  ap- 
pointed by  the  Court ;  in  one  of  those,  or  in  the  Designation  of 
their  Duty,  must  the  Error  lye  ;  &  we  are  peculiarly  affected,  when 
we  are  told,  that  as  the  Return  was  not  made  according  to  the 
Mode  prescribed,  the  Town  is  called  upon,  as  delinquent,  upon  the 
Score  of  Omissions,  though  a  very  considerable  Creditor  upon 
that  of  Justice.  — We  hoped,  &  ive  will  still  hope,  the  Honble.  Court 
will  be  governed  more  by  the  latter,  Consideration  than  the  former, 
especially  as  they  may  remember,  that,  the  Mode  now  prescribed, 
never  made  its  Appearance,  till  after  a  great  Number  of  our  Men 
were  mustered,  Col:  Bromfield  made  a  Return  according  to  the 
then  Mode,  which  we  suppose  was  agreable,  as  far  as  it  went. 

We  have  exerted  ourselves  to  supply  the  87  Men  now  ordered, 
altho'  we  are  Qonvincecl  that  we  have  done  more  than  our  Duty,  &  we 
find  the  main  Difficulty  is  a  Consciousness  in  the  Breast  of  almost 
every  Individual,  that  we  are  greatly,  very  greatly  oppressed  in  this 
particular,  tho'  we  are  determined  to  a  man  not  to  be  out  done  by 
any  Town  in  the  State,  &  we  trust  it  will  appear,  we  have  more  in 
proportion  in  actual  Service  than  any  other,  notwithstanding  the 
many  Draughts  from  this  Sea  Port,  by  Men  of  War  &  Privateers, 
without  whose  Assistance  [182.]  We  had  long  before  this  been 
reduced  to  the  most  wretched  Situation. 

We  submit  these  Matters  to  your  Honor,  &  we  pray  for  such 
Redress,  as  Justice  demands,  we  do  not  petition  for  favor,  we  ask 
not  the  least  Alleviation  in  any  necessary  proportioned  Difficulty, 
but  we  do  expect,  &  have  a  Right  to  demand  Justice;  &  when 
these  Matters  are  equitably  adjusted,  if  we  then  are  delinquent, 
we  are  ready  at  all  Events  to  supply  the  Deficiency,  but  if  we 
have  a  Surplusage  we  expect  to  remain  Creditors  therefor. 

The  foregoing  Draught  of  a  Memorial  being  read  &  considered 
paragraph  by  paragraph,  the  same  was  accepted  by  the  Town, 
&  the  Selectmen  are  directed  to  sign  the  same,  &  present  it  to  the 
General  Court. 

Adjourned  to  Monday  the  25th.  of  May,  instant  9  O'Clock 
A.M. 

Monday  the  25th.  of  May,  9  O'Clock,  met  according  to 
Adjournment. 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq.  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
having  signified  to  the  Town  that  he  was  unable  to  attend  —  the 
Inhabitants  were  desired  to  withdraw  &  bring  in  their  Votes  for  a 
Moderator  Pro  Temp,  the  Votes  being  collected  and  sorted,  it 
appeared  that 

The  Hon,jle.  Thomas  Gushing  Esq.  was  chosen. 

The  Draught  of  a  Petition  to  the  General  Court  relative  to  the 
Men  raised  for  the  Continental  Army,  was  again  read,  &  after 
some  Debate,  Voted,  that  the  same  be  recommitted. 

On  a  Motion  made  the  Question  was  put  Whether  the  Town 
will  reconsider  the  Vote  passed  at  the  last  Meeting  not  to  give 
Instructions  to  their  Representatives  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 

[183.]  Voted,  that  Nathaniel  Appleton 

Joseph  Barrel 


Boston   Town   Records,  1778.  21 

Ezekiel  Price 

Samuel  Barret 

Col:  Thomas  Daws 
be  a  Committee  to  prepare  Instructions  for  the  Gentlemen  who 
represent  this  Town  in  the  General  Assembly  —  to  report  the  same 
at  the  Adjournment. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  To-morrow  10 
O'Clock  to  meet  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House. 

Tuesday  May  26th.  10  O'Clock  A.M.  met  according  to 
Adjournment. 

The  Committee  to  whom  was  recoihitted  the  Draught  of  a 
Memorial  to  the  General  Court  —  Reported,  as  entered  Page  165  — 
which  Report  was  accepted,  &  the  Selectmen  were  directed  to 
sign  the  same,  &  handed  to  our  Representatives,  to  be  by  them 
presented  to  the  General  Assembly. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  prepare  Instructions  for  our 
Representatives,  Reported  a  Draught,  which  was  read,  &  after 
considerable  Debate,  it  was  moved,  &  the  Question  accordingly 
put — That  the  Matter  of  Instructions  subside,  which  passed  in 
the  Affirmative. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  Monday  next,  4 
O'Clock  P.M.  to  meet  at  Faneuil  Hall. 

Monday  June  1'.  1778,  4  O'Clock  P.M.  Met  according  to 
Adjournment. 

The  Honble.  Thomas  Cushing  Esq.  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
being  absent  thro'  Sickness. 

Jonathan  Williams  Esq. 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro.  Temp,  by  a  Hand  Vote. 
[184.]     On  a  Motion  made, 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 
Mr.  Peter  Boyer 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Samuel  Barrett  Esq. 
Deacon  Tim0.  Newell 
Be  a  Committee  to  consider  &  report,  what  Grants  may  be  nec- 
essary to  make  the  several    Schoolmasters  for  their  Support  the 
present  Year. 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  &  Things,  which  remain  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting,  be  referred  over  to  the  Town  Meeting  on  Wednes- 
day next  for  the  Choice  of  two  Selectmen 

Then  the  Meeting  be  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston,  being 
free,  &  Twenty  One  Years  of  age,  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned, 
in  public  Town  Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall,  on  Monday 
25th.  Day  of  May  Anno  Domini  1778. 

Warrant  for  Calling  the  Meeting     -     -     - . read 

The  Honble.  Thomas  Cushing  Esq.  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  by  a  Hand  Vote. 


22  City  Document  No.  80. 

A  Motion  being  made  for  an  Adjournment  on  Account  of  the 
Small  Number  of  Inhabitants  at  this  Meeting,  when  Business  of 
so  much  Moment,  as  the  accepting  or  rejecting  of  the  Form  of 
Government  agreed  on  by  the  late  Convention,  was  to  be  trans- 
acted —  It  was  previously  Voted,  that  at  the  Adjournment  moved 
for,  all  the  Bells  be  rung  for  -|  an  hour,  before  the  time  of  Meet- 
ing, &  that  the  Constables  be  desired  to  go  through  their  several 
Wards  &  desire  the  Inhabitants  to  shut  up  their  Shops,  that  all 
qualified  might  attend  the  Meeting. 

[185.]  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  -J  past 
3  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon,  then  to  attend  at  the  old  Brick  Meet- 
ing House. 

3  O'Clock  Afternoon,  met  according  to  Adjournment 
A  Constitution  &  Form  of  Government  for  the  State  of  Mas- 
sachusetts Bay,  as  agreed  on  by  the  Convention  of  said  State 
February  28th.  1778,  to  be  laid  before  the  several  Towns  &  Plan- 
tations, in  said  State,  for  their  Approbation  or  Disapprobation,  was 
distinctly  read  &  duely  considered  —  And  the  Question  being  put, 
Viz  :  —  Whether  the  Inhabitants  do  approve,  or  disapprove  of  said 
Form  of  Government,  Nine  hundred  &  Sixty  eight  Persons  being 
present,  &  voting  on  the  Question. 
On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 

Mr.  John  Winthrop 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Perez  Morton  Esq. 
Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 
Mr.  Nathaniel  Appleton 
Be  a  Committee  to  draw  up  Instructions  relative  to  a  Form  of 
Government  for  this  State,  to  report  at  the  Adjournment. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  adjourned  to  Monday  next,  3 
O'Clock  P.M.  to  meet  at  Faneuil  Hall. 

June  P.  1778,  3  O'Clock  P.M.  next  according  to  Adjournment. 

The  Honble.  Thomas  Gushing  Esq.  Moderator  of  this  Meeting- 
being  absent,  occasioned  by  Sickness, 

Jonathan  Williams  Esq. 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro  Temp,  by  a  Hand  Vote. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  draw  up  Instructions  for  our 
Representatives,  relative  to  a  Constitution  or  Form  of  Government 
—  Reported  the  following  Draught,  Viz. 

To  the  Representatives  of  the  Town  of  Boston — [186.] 
Gentlemen, 

You  are  hereby  instructed  by  the  Town  of  Boston  to  inform 
the  Hon1'16.  General  Court,  that  after  mature  Deliberation,  in  a 
very  full  Meeting,  consisting  of  Nine  hundred  &  Sixty  eight,  we 
Voted  unanimously,  to  Reject  the  Form  sent  out  by  the  Conven- 
tion, &  proposed  by  them  for  the  Government  of  this  State  in 
future,  &  to  assure  them,  that  a  full  Conviction  of  the  Impropriety 
of  this  Matter's  Originating  with  the  General  Court,  was  the 
Reason  which  induced  us,  the  last  Year,  to  instruct  our  Repre- 
sentatives, on  no   Terms  to  consent  to  any  Proposals  for  this  Par- 


Boston   Town   Records,   1778.  23 

pose;  &  we  are  free  to  declare,  the  Specimen  we  now  have,  in  the 
Form  proposed,  has  confirmed  us  fully,  even  to  Demonstration, 
that  we  were  right  in  our  Coujectures  of  that  Honble.  Body's  being 
improper  for  this  Business  :  —  A  Convention  for  this,  &  this  alone, 
whose  Existence  is  known  No  Longer  than  the  Constitution  is 
forming,  cau  have  no  Prepossessions  in  their  own  Favor,  while  it 
is  hard  for  the  General  Court,  upon  a  Matter  of  this  Kind,  to 
divest  themselves  of  the  Idea  of  their  being  Members;  &  the 
probability  that  they  may  continue  such,  may  induce  them  to 
form  the  Government  with  peculiar  Reference  to  themselves  :  — 
To  this  we  suppose  it  is  owing,  that  the  Legislative  &  Executive 
Branches  are  so  blended,  &  that  nothing  appears,  but  that  the 
Members  of  the  Court  may  monopolize  to  themselves  a  Variety  of 
Offices,  which  we  are  fully  persuaded,  the  best  Form  of  Govern- 
ment will  ever  keep  these  Branches  intirely  distinct,  &  the  Mem- 
bers confined  to  their  particular  Duties,  without  Incumbrance. 

'Tis  needless  to  particularize  the  many  Objections  which  we 
could  offer  to  the  Form  —  It  is  defective  in  its  Foundation  ;  for  it's 
surely  of  Importance,  that  all  Forms  of  Government  should  be 
prefaced  by  a  Bill  of  Rights  ;  in  this  we  find  no  Mention  of  any  : 
—  But,  was  it  unexceptionable  in  all  its  Parts,  except  that  of 
Representation,  that  alone  would  be  [187.]  Sufficient  with  every 
one  possessed  of  the  least  Idea  of  Justice,  or  the  smallest  Knowl- 
edge of  the  Rights  of  Human  Nature,  to  reject  with  Disdain,  a 
Proposal  so  diametrically  opposite  to  both.  —  Representation  ought 
to  be  conformable  to  some  Rule,  either  Property  or  Numbers,  or 
both;  but  in  the  Present  no  Regard  is  had  to  either,  and  Reason, 
Justice,  &  common  Sense,  must  be  tortured  to  a  great  Degree,  to 
accept  that  Representation,  as  equal,  which  may  be  as  Ten  or 
Twenty  to  One:  "For  every  incorporated  Town,  without  ascer- 
taining the  Number  of  Voters,  may  send  one  Member,  while  no 
Town,  having  any  Number  under  three  hundred,  shall  send  more." 
If  this  is  equal,  if  this  is  just,  all  the  Rules  of  Arithmetic,  which 
have  been  in  use  since  the  Formation  of  Figures,  must  be  done 
away ;  but  until  this  new  Rule  of  Calculation  receives  the  Stamp 
of  Authority,  we  cannot  Consent  to  it ;  for  we  are  possessed  of 
that  antiquated  Notion,  that  two  &  two  are  always  equal  to  four, 
&  it  appears  to  us  absolutely  impossible  to  prove  the  contrary. 

We  were,  &  still  are  of  Opinion,  that  a  time  of  War  is  noi  the 
time  to  form  Constitutions  ;  we  feel  the  ill  Consequence  of  this 
Matter,  having  taken  up  the  time  of  the  General  Court,  while  the 
Army  was  neglected  —  We  wish  the  present  may  profit  by  the 
Errors  of  the  last.  —  Should  it  be  declared,  that  this  Form  is 
adopted  by  two  thirds  of  the  State,  you  will  be  careful  that  exact 
Scrutiny  be  made,  as  to  the  Numbers,  &  at  all  Events  enter  your 
solemn  Protest  against  the  Glaring  Injustice  of  Representation ;  but 
should  it  meet  the  Fate  we  hope  &  expect,  of  a  total  Rejection,  & 
a  new  one  is  proposed,  you  are  by  no  Means  to  give  your  Consent, 
but  protest  against  &  oppose  it  in  every  Stage  of  its  Progress,  & 
thereby  do  what  is  in  your  power,  to  prevent  unnecessary  Expences 
of  public  Money. 

The  present  Form  of  Government  we  look  upon  equal  to  the 


24  Our  Document  No.   80. 

Exigencies  of  the  Times,  &  hold  ourselves  bound  to  support  it 
with  our  Lives  &  Fortunes. 

[188.]  At  a  proper  Time  your  Constituents  wish  ardently  a 
new  form,  &  perhaps  in  a  Day  of  Tranquility,  such  an  One  may  be 
adopted  as  shall  please  all  good  Men,  &  save  us  from  the  Dissen- 
tions  which  we  find  attending  the  present  Time. 

The  foregoing  Draught  of  Instructions  to  our  Representatives 
having  been  read  &  considered,  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether 
the  same  shall  be  accepted,  &  given  to  our  Representatives  as  their 
Instructions  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  those  Instructions  be  printed  in  the 
News  Papers. 

Then  the  Meeting:  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned,  in  public  Town 
Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall,  on  Wednesday  the  3d.  Day  of 
June,  Anno  Domini  1778. 

The  Precept  and  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  &  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  Two  Representatives,  in  the  Room  of  the  Honble.  Oliver 
Wendell  &  John  Pitts  Esq1'8.,  elected  Counsellors;  &  then  it  was 
proposed  that  the  Poll  should  be  closed  at  12  O'Clock. 

The  Votes  being  bro't  in  for  two  Representatives,  the  Number 
of  the  same  was  found  to  be  250  —  &  upon  sorting  them,  it 
appeared,  that 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrel  was  chosen     ---------     189. 

The  Votes  being  bro't  in  for  One  Representative,  the  Number  of 
t?he  same  was  found  to  be  218  — -&  upon  Sorting  them  it  appeared 
that 

Thomas  Daws  Esq.  was  chosen  ---------128. 

[189.]  The  Choice  of  Representatives  being  over  &  declared 
—  by  the  Selectmen,  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  & 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  in  order  that 
the  Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  other  Affairs  mentioned 
in  the  Warrant  &  those  which  were  referred  over  at  the  May 
Meeting — accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew,  and  brought  in 
their  Votes,  &  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 

The  Honblc.  James  Otis  Esq. 
was  chosen. 

Adjourned  to  3  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon. 

3  O'Clock  P.M.  met  according  to  Adjournment 
The  Town  proceeded  to  the  Choice  of  two  Selectmen,  and  upon 
sorting  the  Votes  bro't  in,  it  appeared,  that 
Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
was  chosen  a  Selectman  for  the  year  ensuing. 

The  Town  again  bro't  in  their  Votes  for  one  Selectman  &  upon 
sorting  them,  it  appeared,  that 

Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 
was  chosen  a  Selectman  for  the  Year  ensuing. 


Boston   Town   Records,   1778.  25 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  and  report,  what  Grants 
it  may  be  necessary  to  make  to  the  several  Schoolmasters,  for  their 
Salaries  &  Support  the  present  year — Reported  as  on  File,  &  the 
Question  being  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted? 
Passed  in  Affirmative 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  &  Twenty  Pounds  be 
allowed  &  paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  for  his  Salary,  as  Master  of 
the  South  Grammar  School,  for  the  Year  ensuing,  the  same  to  be 
paid  him  quarterly,  as  it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from 
the  Expiration  of  the  last  Quarter. 

Voted,  that  the  additional  Sum  of  One  hundred  &  Eighty 
Pounds,  for  Six  Months,  commencing  the  1*.  of  March  last,  [190.] 
Be  allowed  &  paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt,  on  Account  of  the 
present  high  Price  of  Provisions  &c. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  Hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  & 
paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Holbrook  for  his  Salary,  as  Master  of  the 
Writing  School  in  the  Common,  the  Year  ensuing,  the  same  to  be 
paid  him  quarterly,  as  it  shall  become  due,  &  to  commence  from 
the  Expiration  of  the  last  Quarter. 

Voted,  that  the  farther  Sum  of  one  hundred  pounds  for  Six 
Months,  be  allowed  &  paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Holbrook  on  Account 
of  the  present  high  Price  of  Provisions  &c. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  pounds  be  allowed  &  paid 
unto  Mr.  James  Tileston  for  his  Salary,  as  a  Master  of  the  North 
Writing  School,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  quarterly  as  it  shall 
become  due,  &  to  commence  from  the  Expiration  of  the  last 
Quarter. 

Voted,  that  the  farther  Sum  of  one  hundred  pounds  be  allowed 
&  paid  unto  Mr.  James  Tileston,  for  six  Months,  on  Account  of 
the  present  high  Price  of  Provisions  &c. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  one  hundred  pounds  be  allowed  &  paid 
unto  Mr.  James  Carter,  for  his  Salary,  as  Master  of  the  writing 
School  in  Queen  Street,  for  the  Year  ensuing,  the  same  to  be  paid 
him  quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due,  &  to  commence  from  the 
Expiration  of  the  last  Quarter. 

Voted,  that  the  farther  Sum  of  one  hundred  pounds  for  Six 
Months,  be  allowed  &  paid  unto  Mr.  James  Carter,  on  Account 
of  the  present  high  Price  of  Provisions  &c. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Sixty  pounds  be  allowed  &  paid  unto 
Mr.  William  Bently,  for  his  Salary  as  Usher  of  the  South  Gram- 
mar School,  the  Year  ensuing,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  quarterly 
as  it  shall  become  due,  &  to  commence  from  the  Expiration  of 
the  last  Quarter.  Voted,  that  the  farther  Sum  of  eighty  pounds, 
for  Six  Months,  be  allowed  &  paid  unto  Mr.  William  Bently,  on 
Account  of  the  present  high  Price  of  Provisions  &c. 

[191.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  one  hundred  &  thirty  pounds 
be  allowed  &  paid  out  of  the  Town  Treasury,  unto  David  Jeffries 
Esq.  for  his  services,  as  Treasurer  of  the  Town  the  Year  past,  & 
for  all  his  Expences  in  that  Office. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  one  hundred  and  eighty  pounds,  be 
allowed  &  paid  out  of  the  Town  Treasury  unto  David  Jeffries 
Esq.  in  Consideration  of  the  high  Price  of  Provisions  &c. 


26  City  Document  No.   80. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  the  Accounts  of  David 
Jeffries  Esq.  Town  Treasurer,  have  attended  that  Service,  & 
find  the  same  from  March  1775,  to  March  1778  right  cast  and 
well  vouched,  in  which  he  charges  himself  with  sundry  Rents  & 
other  Incomes  of  the  Town,  amounting  to  £10612  -  9  -  11. 

And  the  said  Treasurer  discharges  himself  by  Abatements  made 
the  Collectors  amounting  £967-18-8  —  by  draughts  made  by 
the  Selectmen  amounting  to  £4178  -  3  —  3  of  which  he  has  paid 
£3922-12  -  3  —  by  Draughts  made  by  the  Overseers  of  the 
poor,  amounting  to  £5615  -  6  -  If  —  of  which  he  has  paid 
£4991  -  10  -  If  —  &  also  by  sundry  Sums  paid  for  Interest  &c 
—  amounting  to  £150-3  —  5  — ■  The  Debt  of  Account  of  Town 
Treasurer,  in  the  Treasurers  Books  amount  to  Sixteen  thousand 
two  hundred  &  five  Pounds  14  f  5d.  £ 

The  Committee  have  inspected  said  Draughts  in  a  very  particu- 
lar manner,  &  every  other  Branch  of  public  Chai'ge,  amounting 
in  the  whole  to  above  £16205  -  14  -  5 J  as  by  Account  of  Town 
Treasurer  in  Town  Treasurer's  Books  Ballance  where  of  being  five 
thousand  five  hundred  and  ninety  three  pounds  4/6£,  is  carried  to 
the  Debet  of  a  new  Account. 

"Which  Report  &  Account  being  read,  Voted,  that  the  same  be, 
&  hereby  is  accepted. 

[192,]  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be,  &  they  hereby  are  ap- 
pointed to  act  upon  the  List  of  Jurors. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Thirty  three  hundred  Pounds  be  raised 
by  a  Tax  upon  Polls  &  Estates  within  this  Town,  for  the  Repay- 
ment of  the  Sums  borrowed  by  Subscription  for  the  Bounty  Voted 
the  6th.  of  May  last,  to  be  given  the  86  Men,  raised  by  a  late 
Order  of  the  General  Court,  as  this  Towns  Proportion  of  the  Con- 
tinental Army,  in  Addition  to  the  Ten  thousand  &  four  thousand 
pounds,  already  Voted  for  the  other  Services  of  the  Town  the 
present  Year. 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned,  in  public  Town 
Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall,  on  Wednesday  the  24th.  Day 
of  June  Anno  Domini  1778. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  bro't  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting,  &  the  same  being  sorted  it  appeared,  that 

Mr.  William  Davis 
was  chosen. 

The  Town  took  into  Consideration  the  Resolve  of  the  General 
Assembly  of  this  State  passed  June  10th.  1778 — the  Selectmen  of 
each  Town  in  this  State,  are  directed  to  pay  out  of  the  Treasury 
of  their  respective  Towns,  the  Sum  of  fourteen  pounds,  to  each 
Non-Commissioned  Officer  &  Private,  that  shall  be  detached  & 
Mustered,  agreable  to  said  Resolve,  to  serve  in  the  Army,  for  the 
Defence  of  Rhode  Island  &c. 


Boston  Town  Records,  1778.  27 

[193.]  Also  Six  pence  p  Mile  for  Mileage  to  said  Men  "  — 
Whereupon 

Voted,  that  David  Jeffries  Esq.  Town  Treasurer  be,  &  he  hereby 
is  impowered  &  directed  to  borrow  on  the  Credit  of  the  next  Tax 
upon  Polls  and  Estates  within  this  Town,  the  Sum  of  Seven  hun- 
dred &  fifty  Pounds  for  the  purpose  mentioned  in  a  Resolve  of  the 
General  Court  passed  the  10th.  of  June  1778,  for  the  Repayment 
of  which  he  is  to  give  his  negotiable  Notes  on  Interest — Also 
Voted,  that  Messs.  Daniel  Bell 

Capt  Jonathan  Stoddard 
be  a  Committee  to  procure  Subscriptions  agreable  to  the  foregoing 
Vote. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Seven  hundred  &  fifty  pounds  be  raised 
by  a  Tax  upon  Polls  &  Estates  within  this  Town,  for  the  Repay- 
ment of  the  Sums  to  be  borrowed  by  the  Town  Treasurer  for  the 
Bounty  &  Mileage,  allowed  by  the  General  Assembly  in  their  Re- 
solve, passed  the  10th.  Day  of  June  Current,  to  be  given  this 
Town's  Proportion  of  the  eighteen  hundred  Men,  ordered  to  be 
raised  by  Draughts  on  several  Regiments  in  this  State  to  serve  in 
the  Army  for  the  Defence  of  Rhode  Island  &c  the  same  to  be 
added  to  the  next  Assessment 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  &  legally  warned,  in  public  Town 
Meeting  assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall,  on  Thursday  the  6th.  Day  of 
August  A.D.  1778 

[194.]     Warrant  for  Calling  the  Meeting  read. 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  &  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock 
was  chosen  unanimously  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  took  his 
Seat  accordingly. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz.  "  To  consider  and  determine, 
what  Steps  are  proper  to  be  taken,  with  respect  to  a  Number  of 
Persons,  late  Inhabitants  of  this  Metropolis,  who  have  sought  & 
received  Protection  from  the  British  King,  and,  as  it  is  report*1,  are 
about  returning  to  this  Town  "  —  was  read  &  also  the  Application 
to  the  Selectmen  for  Calling  the  Meeting  —  After  very  warm  De- 
bates upon  the  Subject 

It  was  moved  that  the  Sense  of  the  Town  may  be  taken, 
Whether  they  will  now  proceed  to  take  any  Steps  in  this  Matter — 
And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  It  passed  in  the  Affirm- 
ative Unanimously 

It  was  then  Voted,  unanimously,  that  it  is  the  Opinion  of  this 
Town,  that  no  one  of  those  Persons,  that  have  left  this  Town,  & 
have  sought  &  Received  Protection  from  the  British  King,  can 
return  to  it  again,  without  greatly  endangering  its  Peace  &  Safety. 

Upon  a  Motion  made,  it  was  Voted,  that 


28  City  Document  No.   SO. 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq. 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esq. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Mr.  Commissary  Devens 
Ellis  Gray  Esq. 
Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 
[195.]  Mr.  William  Cooper 

Mr.  Joseph  Henderson 
Mr.  John  Winthrop 
Be  a    Committee   to   consider  and   report,  at   the  Adjournment, 
what  they  judge  may  be  farther  necessary  to  be  done,  respecting 
the  Subject-Matter  of  the  Warrant. 

On  a  Motion  made,  it  was  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  stand  ad- 
journed to  the  first  Monday  in  September  next,  3  O'Clock  P.M. 
And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  adjourned, 

Monday  the  7th.  of  September  3  O. Clock  P:  M:  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  and  Report  what  may 
further  done  to  prevent  those  Persons  that  have  left  the  Town  and 
have  sought  and  received  protection  from  the  British  King.  —  Re- 
ported, which  Report  being  read  and  considered,  was  amended  by 
the  Town,  and  is  as  follows,  Viz'. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  may  be  further  done 
to  prevent  these  Persons  that  have  left  the  Town,  and  have 
sought  and  received  protection  from  the  British  King,  Reported 
the  following  Vote.  Viz1 . 

Voted,  that  the  Representatives  of  the  Town  be  and  the}' 
hereby  are  Instructed  and  directed  to  use  their  best  endeavors  in 
the  Great  and  General  Court  at  their  next  Sessions  to  have  such 
Laws  enacted  as  may  effectually  prevent  a  return,  to  the  Town,  or 
any  part  of  the  State,  any  Person  whatever  who  has  left  this 
Country  when  in  Distress,  and  has  Saught  and  received  protec- 
tion from  the  King  &  Government  of  Britain 

[196.]  The  Question  being  put,  Whether  the  foregoing  Report 
shall  be  excepted  —  passed  in  the  Affirmative,  unanimously  also 

Voted  that  the  Town  Clerk  furnish  the  Gentlemen  who  Repre- 
sent this  Town  with  an  Attested  Copy  of  the  foregoing  Vote. 

On  a  Motion  made  by  a  late  Speach  of  the  Patriotick  Gover- 
nour  Livingston,  relative  to  the  inexpediency  of  the  absent  Torys, 
being  suffered  to  return  to  these  States,  was  read 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston,  duely  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  29th. 
Day  of  September  Anno  Domini  1778. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read. 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  bring  in  their  Votes  for  a 
Moderator  of  this  Town  Meeting  and  the  same  having  been  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that  The  Honourable  John  Hancock 
Esq1",  was  chosen  Moderator  unanimously. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1778.  '29 

[197.]  The  Town  being  informed  by  General  Hancock,  that 
a  Lameness  prevented  his  Accepting  the  Honor  done  to  him  by 
the  appointment,  proceeded  to  the  choice  of  another  Person,  and 
the  Votes  being  brought  in  and  sorted  it  appear'd  that  The 
Honble.  Thomas  Cushing  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  unanimously. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1. — To  consider  of  the  request 
of  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  that  the  Town  would  take  Measures 
for  the  immediate  raising  a  sum  of  Money  in  order  to  procure 
Provisions,  and  other  Necessaries  of  Life,  for  the  present  Supply 
of  the  Poor  in  the  Almshouse,  and  to  carry  them  through  the 
Winter" —  was  read  and  after  debate  had  thereon,  it  was  moved 
and  Voted,  that  upon  account  of  the  thinness  of  this  Meeting,  it 
be  Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  10  O'Clock  in  the  Forenoon, 
also 

Voted  that  the  Bell  Ringers  be  directed  by  the  Selectmen,  to 
ring  the  last  Bells  for  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  half  an 
Hour  before  the  time  of  Meeting 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned. 

Wednesday  September  30th.  1778  —  10  O'Clock  Forenoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment. 

The  Article  in  the  Warant  relative  to  the  request  of  the  Over- 
seers, of  the  Poor,  for  the  Supply  of  the  Alms  House,  again  read 
&  after  considerable  debate 

[198.]  Voted,  that  a  Petition  be  preferred  to  the  General 
Assembly  of  this  State,  that  a  Quantity  of  Corn  now  in  the 
Hands,  of  the  Honble.  Board  of  War,  may  be  disposed  of  to  the 
Town,  for  the  use  of  the  State  and  Town  Poor  now  in  the  Alms 
House ;  as  also  for  a  Quantity  of  Wood,  if  it  should  appear, 
that  considerable  of  that  Article  has  been  procured  by  the  Board 
of  War  for  the  use  of  the  State  ;  and  that  the  Selectmen  be  a 
committee  to  prepare  and  Present  said  Petition  —  also  — 

Whereas  it  has  been  represented  to  this  Town  by  the  overseers 
of  the  Poor,  that  they  stand  in  pi'esent  and  absolute  need  of  a  con- 
siderable Sum  of  Money  to  procure  Supplies  for  the  Support  of  the 
Poor  in  the  Alms  House  this  Fall  and  the  ensuing  Winter. 

Voted,  that  it  be  and  hereby  is  earnestly  recommended  to  the 
Inhabitants  of  the  Town  to  pay  their  Town  Taxes  to  the  Collectors 
immediately,  in  order  that  the  Overseers  may  be  furnished  with  a 
sufficient  sum  of  Money  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  and  the  Col- 
lectors are  hereby  directed  to  pay  in  the  Money  they  ma}r  receive 
in  consequence  of  this  Vote  to  the  Town  Treasurer  immediately, 
and  the  Town  Treasurer  is  directed  to  supply  the  Overseers,  of  the 
Poor  with  a  Sum  not  exceeding  Five  Thousand,  five  hundred 
Pounds,  accordingly  also. 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  appointed  to  assist  the  Town  Treas- 
urer in  borrowing  Moneys  for  the  service  of  the  Town  be  desired 
to  proceed  in  said  business,  till  the  several  Votes  of  Credit  are 
Compleated. 

[199.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant,  Viz1.  What  steps  shall 
be  taken  in  regard  to  a  late  Resolve  of  the  General  Assembly  of 


30  City  Document  No.   80. 

this  State,  directing  the  Selectmen  of  this  Town  to  procure  four 
hundred  and  Seven  Shirts,  and  the  same  number  of  pairs  of  Shoes 
and  Stockings  for  the  use  of  the  Continental  Army  "  —  was  read 

—  and  after  some  debate  had  thereon,  it  was  moved,  and  Voted, 
that  the  further  consideration  of  this  Article  be  referred  to  the 
Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "To  consider  the  request  of 
the  Assessors,  that,,  an,  adequate  Allowance  may  be  made  them 
on  Account  of  the  extraordinary  duty  which  now  lays  upon  them, 
and  in  consideration  of  the  high  price  of  the  necessaries  of  Life  " 
was  read,  and  after  considerable  debate,  it  was  moved,  that  the 
further  consideration  thereof  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment  of 
this  Meeting. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  procuring  Shoes  and 
Stockings  &c  for  the  Continental  Army  was  again  read  and  con- 
sidered, whereupon,  it,  was  Voted,  the  former  Vote  be  reconsid- 
ered, for  referring  the  further  consideration  of  this  Article  to  the 
Adjournment,  and  that  the  Selectmen  be  and  hereby  are  directed 
and  impowered  to  procure  the  Shirts,  Shoes,  and  Stockings  wanted 
for  the  Continental  Army,  Agreable  to  a  Resolve  of  the  General 
Assembly  of  this  State  for  that  purpose. 

[200.]  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Wednesday 
the  11th.  Day  of  November  10.  O. Clock.  A:  M: 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned. 

Wednesday  the  11th.  Day  of  November  10.  O.  Clock  Forenoon 

—  Met  accoi'ding  to  Adjournment. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz'.  —  "To  consider  of  the 
request  of  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  that  the  Town  would  take 
measures  for  the  immediate  raising  a  Sum  of  Money  in  Order  to 
procure  Provisions,  and  other  Necessaries  of  Life,  for  the  present 
supply  of  the  Poor  in  the  Alms  House,  and  to  carry  them  through 
the  Winter  "  —  was  read  — 

The  Collectors  of  Taxes  were  then  called  upon,  to  acquaint  the 
Town,  with  the  success  they  had  met  with  in  Collecting  Money, 
from  their  respective  Wards. 

The  Collectors  having  Reported,  agreeable  to  requirement ;  the 
Town  were  thereby  led  to  apprehend,  that  the  Overseers  of  the 
Poor,  were  like  soon  to  receive  sufficient  Moneys  for  the  present 
supply  of  the  Alms  House  —  whereupon  it  was  Voted,  that  the 
further  consideration  of  that  Article  in  the  Warrant  respecting 
the  Alms  House  was  become  needless. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1. — To  consider  the  request 
of  the  Assessors,  that  an  adequate  Allowance  may  be  made  them 
on  Accouut  [201.]  of  the  extraordinary  Duty  which  now  lays 
upon  them,  and  in  consideration  of  the  High  price  of  the  neces- 
saries of  Life" — -was  again  read,  and  considered  —  Whereupon 
it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of  this 
Matter  be  referred  over  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  — 
also 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Ezekiel  Price 
Mr.  Peter  Loyer 


Boston  Town   Records,  1778.  3l 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Mr.  Timothy  Newell 
A  Committee  appointed   at   a  former  Meeting  "  to  consider  and 
Report  what  grants  may  be  necessary  to  make  the  several  School 
Masters  for  their  Support  the  present  year," — be  desir'd  to  take 
the  request  of  the  Assessors  into  consideration,  and  Report  what 
they  Judge  proper  to  be  done  thereon  at  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting 

It  was  then  moved,  and  Voted  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned 
to  Tuesday  the  17th.  Day  of  November  10.  O'Clock  Forenoon 
And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Tuesday  the  17th.  Day  of  November  10.  OClock  Forenoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Honble.  Thomas  dishing  Esqr.  [202.]  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting,  having  Signified  that  he  was  unable  to  attend,  by  reason 
of  Sickness  Votes,  by  Order  of  the  Selectmen  were  brought  in  for 
a  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  was  chosen 

The  Committee  appointed,  "  to  consider  what  Grants  may  be 
necessary  to  make  the  several  Schoolmasters,  for  their  support  the 
present  year"  —Reported  as  follows  Viz4. 

That  a  further  additional  allowance  on  Account  of  the  present 
high  price  of  Provisions  &c.  be  made  —  Viz4. 

To  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt     -     -     -     of  £250  —  for  ye.  other  6  Months 
To  Mr.  Samuel  Holbrook  -     -     of    140  —  for     -     -     d°.     -     - 
To  Mr.  James  Carter    -     -     -     of    140  —  for     -     -     d°.     -     - 
To  Mr.  James  Tileston      -     -     of    140— for     -     -     d°.     -     - 
To  Mr.  James  Bently  Usher  to  Mr.  Hunt  of  £125  —    d°.     -     - 

and  for  omission  the  last  6  Months,  —     -        10  £135 

The  Committee  appointed  "  to  consider  of  an  adequate  Allow- 
ance to  the  Assessors  on  Account  of  their  extraordinary  duty  and 
in  consideration  of  the  High  price  of  the  Necessaries  of  Life  — 
having  attended  the  Assessors,  examined  their  Business  the 
present  Year ;  Viued  their  method  of  doing  the  same,  with  the 
great  number  of  Books,  and  Papers,  they  have  wrote  and  gone 
through  for  that  Purpose  ;  do  find  that  by  means  of  the  repealed 
Assessments,  they  have  been  obliged  to  make,  and  the  regular 
Method  they  have  pursued  [203.]  In  making  those  Assess- 
ments, and  the  General  Valuation  of  the  Ratable  Estates,  of  the 
Inhabitants  agreeable  to  a  late  Law  of  this  State  ;  great  Labour 
and  much  time  have  been  Spent  therein  ;  and  that  their  whole 
number  might  be  employ'd  in  the  Service. 

We  are  therefor  of  Opinion  That  they  ought  to  receive  thirty 
Shillings  per  Day,  each,  during  the  time  of  their  being  employed 
in  the  Business  of  their  Office,  to  commence  from  the  Settlement 
of  their  last  Account. 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  duly  considered  — 
the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accented  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  to  consider  proper  allowances  to 


32  City  Document  No.   80. 

the  Schoolmasters,  having  been  duly  considered,  the  Question  was 
put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affer- 
mative 

A  Motion  was  made  and  passed  that  this  Meeting  be  dissolved 
—  And  tbe  Meeting  was  accordingly  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  Publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall,  on  Tuesday  the  17th.  Day  of 
November  Anno  Domini  1778.     11.  0. Clock.  Forenoon 

[204.]     Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Votes  for  a  Moderator,  of  this  Meeting  having  been  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeard,  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  was  chosen. 

The  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  "  to  make  enquirey  why 
some  obnoxious  Persons  that  have  returned  are  permitted  to 
reside  here  contrary  to  a  Law  of  this  State  ;  and  to  receive  from 
the  Committee  of  Correspondence  an  account  of  their  proceeding 
in  the  execution  of  said  Laws  and  to  adopt  some  spirited  Resolves, 
whereby  the  Town  may  further  testify  to  the  World  their  deter- 
mination that  those  sworn  Enemies  to  our  rights  and  Liberties, 
who  have  fled  their  Country  and  engaged  as  volunteers,  in  the 
cause  of  Tyranny  and  shall  never  return  to  enjoy  within  the  Walls 
of  liberty  and  independence  "  —  was  again  read. 

The  Committee  of  Correspondence  &c  being  called  upon  for  an 
Account  of  their  proceedings  reported  see  particulars  as  entered 
at  large  in  the  fair  Quarto  Minnet  Book  of  Town  Meeting  trans- 
acted from  Page  110  to  125 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that 

Mr.  Thomas  W alley 

Caleb  Davis  Esq1". 

Perez  Morton  Esqr. 

be  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  the  Board  of  War,  and  to  request 

their  Reason  for  Suspending  the  opperation  of  the  [205,]  Law, 

so  far  as  it  respects  the  sendiug  Mr.  Johonnot  out  of  this  State 

The  Meeting  was  then  Adjourned  to  three  O'Clock  P:  M: 

Three  O'Clock  Afternoon,  met  according  to  Adjournment. 

The  Committee  appointed  in  the  Forenoon,  Reported  that  they 
had  waited  on  the  Board  of  War,  who  were  pleased  to  hand 
them  an  order  to  be  laid  before  the  Town,  a  Resolve  of  Council 
and  the  Board  of  Wars,  replys,  and  a  second  Resolve  of  Council, 
which  are  as  follows  Viz'. 

State  of  Massachusetts  Bav  Council  Chamber  October  16. 
1778. 

Whereas  it  appears  to  this  Board,  that  Francis  Johonnot's  case, 
now  confined  in  the  Common  Goal  in  Boston,  as  appears  included 
in  the  exclusion  Act,  passed  the  last  Session  of  the  General 
Court,  is  attended  with  sundry  circumstances  peculiarly  favorable 
to  him,  And  such  as  would  have  a  great  tendency  to  induce  the 
Legislative  Authority  of  this  State  to  order  his  Liberation  from 
Prison  and  exemption  from  banishment :  therefore 


Boston   Town   Eecords,  1778.  33 

Order  that  it  be  and  hereby  is  recommended  to  the  Board  of 
War,  not  to  send  off  Francis  Johonnott  who  is  now  confined 
in  Goal,  in  consequence  of  a  Law  that  passed  the  last  Session 
of  the  General  Court,  agreable  [206.]  To  the  direction  of 
said  Law,  untill  he  can  have  opportunity  to  lay  the  State  of 
his  case  before  the  General  Court,  and  obtain  their  determination 
thereon  — 

True  Copy 

Atts.  John  Avery  Depy.  Secy. 
To  the  Honble.  the  Council  — 

We  the  underwritten,  Members  of  the  Board  of  War,  have 
received  your  Honours,  recommendation,  respecting  Francis  Jo- 
honnot  now  confined  in  Boston  Goal  on  the  exclusion  Act,  on 
which  we  beg  leave  to  observe  —  that  however  favourable 
any  circumstances  may  appear  in  that  Gentlemans  Case,  they 
apprehend  the  Law  the  common  rule  of  all  our  conduct,  has 
nothing  discretionary  with  us,  therefore  to  Suspend  the  opperation 
of  so  positive  a  State,  on  a  recommendation  only,  we  confess  we 
are  awfully  afraid 

Samuel  P.  Savage 
John  Brown 
War  Office  October  Thomas  Walker 

27.  1  778.  Eleazer  Johnson 

Isaac  Phillips 
State  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay 
Council  Chamber  October  28th.  1778. 
On  the  Petition  of  Francis  Johonnot 

Whereas.  Mr.  Francis  Johonnott  has  lately  been  confined  to  the 
common  Goal  in  Boston  as  a  Person  included  in  the  Act  intitled. 
"  An  Act  to  prevent  the  return  to  this  State  of  certain  Persons 
[207.]  Therein  named,  and  others,  who  have  left  the  State,  or 
other  of  the  United  States,  and  Joined  the  Enemies  thereof "  — 
And  in  persuance  of  said  Act,  is  to  be  transported  by  the  Board 
of  War,  to  some  port  or  place,  within  the  Dominions  or  in  the 
possession  of  the  Forces  of  the  King  of  Great  Britain ;  and 
whereas  it  appears  to  this  Board,  that  the  case  of  said  Francis 
Johonott  is  attended  with  many  circumstances  peculiarly  favour- 
able to  him,  and  which  might  induce  the  Legislative  Authority  of 
this  State  (if  they  were  convened)  to  liberate  him  from  Goal,  and 
exempt  him  from  banishment ;  and  his  conduct  during  his  Ab- 
sence, and  since  he  fled  from  Great  Britain  has  been  such  as  that 
in  case  he  should  be  sent  out  of  this  State,  as  is  by  said  Act 
directed,  he  would  be  exposed  to  immediate  distraction,  liable  to 
be  apprehended  as  a  Traitor  to  the  King  of  Great  Britain,  and  to 
suffer  the  punishment  Persons  of  such  a  character  are  by  their 
laws  exposed  to :  the  sending  him  off  therefore  under  such  circum- 
stances would  be  looked  upon  by  every  considerate  and  Candid 
Man  as  a  Species  of  cruelty,  unworthy  of  Americans  :  therefore 

Ordered,  That  the  Prayer  of  this  Petition  be  so  far  granted,  the 
Board  of  War  be  and  hereby  are  directed  and  required,  to  sus- 
pending sending  of  the  said  Francis  Johonnot,  in  pursuance  of  the 
Act  aforesaid  untill  he  can  have  an  Opportunity  to  lay  the  State 


34  City  Document  No.   80. 

of  case  before  the  General  Court,  and  obtain  their  determination 
thereuu 

True  Copy 

Atts.  John  Avery  Depy.  Secy. 
[208.]     On  a  Motion  made — Voted,  that 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
AVilliam  Cooper 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Mr.  Harbottle  Dorr 
Dr.  Nathaniel  Noyes 
Col0.  Edward  Proctor 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  at  large  the  Subject  matter  of  the 
Notification,  for  the  Meeting,  and  to  Report  at  the  Adjournment, 
what  they  shall  Judge  necessary  for  the  Town  to  do  thereon. 

It  was  then  moved,  that  there  might  be  an  Adjournment  to 
Monday  next  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon;  And  the  Meeting  was 
accord ingby  Adjourned 

Monday  the  23d,  of  November  3  O'Clock  P:  M:  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  at  large  the  subject  Mat- 
ter of  the  Notification  and  Reported  the  following  Resolves  &c 
which  with  some  amendments,  were  passed  by  a  very  great 
majority.  Viz1. 

The  Town  having  examined  mto  the  Case  and  Circumstances 
of  Cap'.  Samuel  Pepper,  and  Mr.  Francis  Johonnot,  came  into  the 
following  Resolves.      Viz'. 

[209.]  Resolved,  that  it  appears  to  this  Town  that  the 
Board  of  War  have  not  proceeded  with  Mr.  Francis  Johonnot,  as  is 
injourned  them  by  the  late  Law  of  this  State,  having  suspended 
the  Operation  of  said  Law  so  far  as  it  respects  the  said  Johonnot, 
untill  the  next  Meeting  of  the  General  Court,  by  the  order  and 
requirement  of  the  Honble.  Council  of  this  State ;  for  reasons  set 
forth  in  said  Order 

Resolved,  as  the  Sense  of  this  Town  that  the  Oath  of  Fidelity, 
being  administred  to  Cap'.  Samuel  Pepper  by  Mr.  Justice  Green- 
leaf,  is  indirect  violation  of  a  law  of  this  State,  prescribing  the 
form  of  said  Oath,  and  said  Pepper  still  remaining  among  us,  is 
dangerous  to  the  peace  and  Safety  of  this  and  the  United  States 

Whereas  this  Town  have  divers  times  testified  their  indignation 
at  those  Practices,  who  have  imbrued  their  hands  in  the  Blood  of 
their  fellow  Countrymen,  and  their  determined  resolution  to  do 
all  in  their  Power  to  prevent  their  return,  and  at  a  late  full  Meet- 
ing of  the  Inhabitants,  solemnly  Voted.  —  "That  it  is  the  opinion 
of  the  Town,  that  no  one  of  those  Persons  who  have  left  this 
Town  and  have  sought  and  received  protection  from  the  British 
King,  can  return  to  it  again  without  greatly  endangering  its  peace 
and  safety,  '  And  the  Gentlemen  who  Represent  this  Town  in 
General  Assembly,  having  agreeable  to  their  Instruction,  Moved 
for,  and  obtained  a  Law  to  be  enacted,  prohibiting  a  return  to 
this  Town,  or  any  part  of  this  State,  any  such  Persons  whatso- 


Boston   Town   Eecords,   1778.  35 

ever  ;  and  it  appearing  [210.]  To  this  Town,  that  said  Law  and 
others,  in  force  are  well  calculated  to  preserve  the  Peace  and 
Safety  of  this  and  the  United  States  at  a  time  of  common  danger, 
provided  the  same  are  carried  into  execution 

Resolved,  That  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town  will  exert  them- 
selves to  the  utmost  in  Supporting  the  Civil  Magistrate  in  the 
execution  of  this  Law,  that  those,  professed  Enemies  to  our  Rights 
and  Liberties,  the  first  fomenters  of  our  present  Troubles,  who 
have  left  this  Country  and  aided  the  British  Tyrant  iu  his  worse 
than  Savage  measures,  to  deprive  Americans  of  ever  thing  that 
ought  to  be  held  dear  and  sacred  by  any  People,  may  not  return 
and  enjoy  in  common,  the  fruits  of  what  our  immortal  Patriots, 
have  toil'd  and  bled  to  procure  us,  and  in  some  future  time  to  be 
again  the  base  and  cursed  Instruments  of  British  Seducers,  in  in- 
volving a  happy  People  in  confusion  and  bloodshed,  in  order  to 
realise  the  reward,  and  private  advantages  held  out  to  such 
Traitors  by  the  Enemies  of  America  — 

And  it  is  further  Resolved,  That  our  Representatives  be  and 
they  are  hereby  are  Instructed,  to  use  Their  influence  in  the  Gen- 
eral Assembly,  that  the  Laws  now  in.  being,  relative  to  our 
implacable  Enemies  be  not  only  preserved  in  their  full  force  and 
vigor,  but  strengthened  if  there  should  be  occasion  ;  this  Town 
being  of  opinion,  that  no  relaxation,  can  at  this  time  be  permitted 
without  great  hazard,  not  only  to  our  peace  but  to  the  glorious 
Cause  in  which  America  is  engaged 

[211.]  The  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  and 
Safety,  having  agreeable  to  requirement  Reported  to  the  Town  their 
proceedings  in  the  execution  of  the  late  Law  of  this  State  prohib- 
iting the  return  of  inimical  Persons ;  and  it  appearing  to  the  Town 
that  they  have  diligently  and  faithfully  performed  the  duties 
enjoined  them  by  the  Laws  of   this  State 

Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given 
them  therefore  ;  and  that  they  be  desired  to  proceed  with  vigilance 
and  activity  in  the  further  discharge  of  the  Duties  of  their  Important 
trust ;  the  Town  being  determined  to  afford  them  their  countenance 
and  support,  while  they  continue  to  make  the  Laws  of  this  State, 
the  rule  of  their  Conduct. 

On  a  Motion  made  and  Voted,  That  the  sum  of  Three  hundred 
and  fifty  Pounds  be  added  to  Mr.  Hunts  Salary  for  the  Year  end- 
ing the  first  of  March  next.  Nine  hundred  pounds  in  considera- 
tion of  the  high  price  of  the  necessaries  of  Life  — 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred 
seventy  five  Pounds  be  granted  to  Mr.  William  Bently,  Usher  to 
the  South  Grammar  School,  in  addition  to  the  Salary  already 
granted  him  ending  the  first  of  March  next,  in  consideration  of 
the  high  price  of  Necessaries,  which  will  make  one  half  the  Sum 
which  has  been  granted  Mr.  Hunt 

[212.]  On  a  Motion,  Voted,  That  all  the  proceedings  of  this 
Meeting  be  Published. 

It  was  then  moved,  that  this  Meeting  be  dissolved 

And  it  was  accordingly  dissolved 


36  City  Document  No.   80. 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Wednesday  the  13th.  Day 
of  January  Anno  Domini  1779.  10.  0 Clock  Forenoon 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  bring  their  Votes  for  a  Moder- 
ator of  this  Meeting  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

John  Brown  Esq1', 
was  chosen  unanimously. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  5C  To  consider  what  measures 
are  proper  to  be  taken  by  the  Town,  respecting  the  present 
scarcity  of  Bread  Corn  and  to  prevent  the  further  monopoly 
and  exorbitant  prices  of  the  Necessaries  of  Life  "  —  was  read  — 
and  after  some  consideration  thereon  —  On  a  Motion  made  Voted, 
that  the  Bakers  in  the  Town  be  desired  to  give  their  Attendance 
and  inform  the  Town  [213.]  of  the  quantity  of  Flour  and  Grain, 
which  they,  and  others,  may  now  have  by  them  — 

Several  of  the  Town  Baker's,  attend'd  accordingly,  and  in- 
formed of  what  they  knew  relative  to  the  quantity  of  Flour  and 
Grain,  now  in  the  hands  of  the  Bakers  &c 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  a  Committee  of  thirty  Six 
Persons,  three  for  each  Ward,  be  now  chosen,  to  make  thorough 
inquiry  in  their  respective  Wards  as  to  the  quantity  of  Flour  and 
the  other  Necessaries  of  Life,  now  in  Town  —  and  to  Report  in 
writing  at  the  Adjournment — 

Voted  the  following  Persons  be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a 
Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid  —  Viz1.  Ward 

Cap1.  William  Brown  N°.  1 

Mr.  John  Sigorney 
Cap1.  Silas  Atkins 

Messrs.  John  Lambert  N°.  2 

Nathaniel  Barber 
Richard  Flood 

Cap'.  John  Ballard  N°.  3 

Cap'.  Elias  Parkman 
James  Sherman 

Col0.  Edward  Proctor  N°.  4 

Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 
Edward  Edes 

[214.]  Cap'.  William  Craft  N°.  5 

Mr.  Daniel  Parker 
Cap'.  William  Bell 

Cap'.  John  Hinckley 

Mr.  Joseph  Hall  N°.  6 

Mr.  Benjamin  Sumner 


Boston   Town   Eecords,   1779.  37 

Mr.  Benjamin  Edes 

Mr.  Robert  Wier  N°.  7 

Mr.  Joseph  Lovering 

Mr.  "William  Scollay 

Cap'.  Winthrop  Gray  N°.  8 

Col0.  Jonathan  Pollard 

Mr.  Adam  Colson 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley  N°.  9 

Mr.  Joseph  Shed 

Major  Joseph  Webb 

Deacon  Robert  Gardner  N°.  10 

Mr.  William  McNiel 

Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles 

Mr.  Thomas  Tifeston  N°.  11 

Mr.  John  McLane 

Deacon  Gibbins  Sharp 

Cap*.  Robert  Davis  N°.  12 

Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 

[215.]  On  a  Motion  made  —  Voted,  that  a  Committee  of 
Nine  Persons  be  appointed  to  take  up  the  several  matters,  in  the 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting,  and  to  report  at  Large  what 
Measures  they  apprehend  it  will  be  expedient  for  the  Town  to 
adopt,  in  order  to  relieve  the  Inhabitants  under  their  great  and 
growing  difficulties 

Voted,  that  John  Brown  Esqr. 

John  Rowe  Esqr. 

William  Cooper 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 

Mr.  William  Foster 

Cap4.  Amasa  Davis 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 

Mr,  Nathaniel  Noyes 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  several  Wharfingers  be 
desired  to  attend  the  foregoing  Committee,  and  acquaint  them 
with  the  present  quantity  of  Wood  on  their  respective  Wharfs 

Voted,  that  the  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  10. 
O'Clock  Forenoon  and  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned. 

Fryday  the  15th.  of  January  10.  O'Clock  Forenoon,  met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment. 

The  Committee  of  thirty  Six  appointed  to  make  inquery  in  the 
several  Wards,  as  to  the  quantity  of  Flour  and  other  Articles, 
made  Report  in  Writing  [216.]  Of  the  quantities  of  Flour  and 
other  necessaries  of  Life,  which  upon  enquiry  were  found  in  the 
respective  Wards 


38  City  Document  No.   80. 

The  Committee  of  Nine  made  a  Report  as  follows  —  Viz4. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  take  np  the  Several  Matters 
contained  in  the  Warrant,  beg  leave  to  Report,  in  part 

That  they  have  conversed  with  the  several  Wood  Wharfingers, 
and  find  that  the  Wood  now  on  hand  is  sold  to  the  Continent 
and  State ;  that  the  Coasters  now  demand  twenty  Six  dollars 
for  Wood,  and  that  considering  the  high  price  of  Hay  &c.  they 
cannot  deliver  their  Wood  under  thirty  six  Dollars,  but  to  prevent 
any  further  rise  of  that  Article,  for  the  present  they  have 
engaged  to  supply  the  Inhabitants  with  two  hundred  and  fifty 
Cord  at  thirty  Six  Dollars  in  small  Quantities  not  exceeding  Six 
feet  — 

Your  Committee  by  conferring  with  the  Chairman  of  the 
Committee  of  Enquirey  are  informed  that  the  present  supply  of 
Flour  and  Bread  Corn  is  very  scanty,  therefore  are  of  opinion 
that  some  measures  must  be  adopted  immediately  to  purchase  a 
quantity  of  Flour  and  Grain  for  which  purpose  they  recomend 
to  the  Town  to  appoint  a  Committee  to  Collect  Subscriptions  for 
Money  to  be  advanced  immediately  and  put  into  some  trusty  hands, 
to  buy  up  a  quantity  of  Grain  and  Flour,  and  [217.]  have  The 
same  housed  in  the  Granary,  and  sold  to  the  Inhabitants  at  the 
discretion  of  the  Selectmen  or  a  Committee  for  that  purpose,  at  the 
cost  and  charges,  and  as  it  ma}T  be  necessary  for  the  purchasers 
to  go  into  the  States  of  Connecticut  and  New  York,  your  Commit- 
tee recomend,  that  an  application  be  made  immediately  to  the 
General  Assembly  requesting  a  recommendation  to  those  States  for 
permission  to  transport  the  same  into  this  State. 

As  there  is  now  depending  in  the  General  Court  a  Bill  to  prevent 
forestalling  and  monopoly,  your  Committee  have  suspended  the 
consideration  of  that  Article  till  they  can  obtain  further  informa- 
tion respecting  said  Bill,  but  recomend  it  to  the  Inhabitants,  not 
to  purchase  any  more  of  the  Necessaries  of  Life,  then  thoy  have 
immediate  occasion  for  in  their  Families  ;  and  that  the  present 
Possessors  of  Sugar,  Molasses,  Grain,  Flour,  Tea,  Coffee,  Choco- 
lat  and  Rice,  be  desired  to  retail  the  Same  in  small  quantities 
untill  the  Town  shall  take  further  order  thereon 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  considered,  paragraph  by 
paragraph,  the  question  was  put — whether  the  same  shall  be 
accepted  —  pass'd  in  the  affermative 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  and  impowered 
to  receive  all  the  Moneys  which  shall  be  borrowed  by  the  Com- 
mittee to  be  appointed  to  Collect  Subscriptions,  agreeable  to  the 
Report  of  the  foregoing  Committee  also 

[218.]  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is 
directed  and  impowered  to  give  his  negotiable  Notes  carrying 
Interest,  and  payable  from  three  to  Six  Months,  to  such  Persons 
as  shall  lend  the  Town  Moneys  for  the  purpose  of  purchasing 
Flour.  &c  agreeable  to  the  foregoing  Report 

On  a  Motion  made.  Voted,  that  the  Committee  to  be  chosen  for 
the  purpose  of  borrowing  Moneys  and  purchasing  Flour,  and  con- 
sist of  Twelve  Persons  to  be  chosen  by  Ballot,  in  the  Afternoon 
Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourn'd  to  3.  0. Clock.  P:  M: 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  39 

3  0. Clock  P.  M.  Met  according  to  Adjournment 
The  Votes  for  a  Committee  of  Twelve  Persons,  for  the  Purpose 
of  borrowing  Moneys  purchasing  Flour  &c  were  brought  in,  and 
being  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

John  Rowe  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  White 
Mr.  William  Bant 

Mr.  Gibbins  Sharp  excused 

Samuel  Barret  Esq1. 
Mr.  Thomas  Wally 
Mr.  Samuel  Hendly  Esqr. 
Mr.  Isaac  Pierce        •  excused 

Mr.  John  Lucas 
Mr.  Thomas  Russell 
[219.],  Cap'.  Amasa  Davis 

Mr.  Daniel  Hubbard 
were  chosen. 

Voted  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  the  16th.  Day  of  Jan- 
uary Ins1,  and  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Saturday  16th.  January.  10.  O:  Clock  Forenoon  —  met  according 
to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made  and  carried  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to 
withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  six  Persons  in  addition  to 
the  Committee  for  borrowing  Money  and  purchasing  Flour  &c  — 
the  Votes  being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Mr.  John  Sweetser 

Mr.  William  Foster 

Major  Joseph  Webb 

Cap'.  Gustavus  Fellows 

Mr.  Samuel  Breck 

Mr.  Henderson  Inches 
were  chosen 

The  following  Memorial  and  Address  to  Major  General  Gates, 
was  laid  before  the  Town,  agreeable  to  a  Motion  made  for  that 
Purpose  at  the  last  Meeting  —  Viz'.  — 

To  the  Honble.  Horatio  Gates  Esqr.  Major  General  and  Com- 
mander of  the  Army  of  the  United  States  in  the  Eastern  Depart- 
ment— 

The  Memorial  and  Address  of  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of 
Boston 

[220.]  The  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston  beg  leave  to 
represent  to  you  Sir,  that  from  their  distresses  occasioned  by  the 
present  scarcity  of  Flour  and  Bread  Corn,  owing  in  a  great  Meas- 
ure to  the  Embargo  laid  thereon  in  the  Southern  States,  a  large 
Sum  of  Money  has  been  subscribed  for  procuring  a  quantity 
thereof,  for  the  more  immediate  relief  of  the  Poor  ;  and  not  know- 
ing but  that  some  Flour  might  be  spared  from  the  Continental 
Stores,  which  have  been  augmented  from  the  Magazines  of  this 
State  ;  we  pray  you  Sir,  that  you  would  be  pleased  either  to  give 
directions  or  recommend  to  the  Commissary  General  of  Supplies, 
the  favouring  us  with  the  loan  of   such  a  quantity  thereof,  to  be 


40  City  Document  No.   80. 

replac'd  in  a  short  Time,  as  you  shall  Judge  may  be  spared 
without  prejudice  to  the  Publick  Service,  to  which  we  are  sensible 
every  private  or  partial  Interest  ought  to  give  place 

The  Town  take  this  opportunity  in  Publick  Town  Meeting 
Assembled,  to  express  their  high  satisfaction  in  seeing  this 
Military  Department  filled  by  a  Gentleman  who  thr°.  the  favour 
of  Providence  has  acquired  such  uncommon  Glory  in  the  Field,  and 
whose  Services  has  been  so  happily  important  to  the  General  In- 
terest of  the  United  States  and  particularly  to  the  present  security 
of  the  Northern  Quarter,  and  in  whom  as  well  as  in  your  worthy 
Predecessor  in  this  Department,  we  experience  the  amiable 
qualities  of  a  good  Citizen,  combined  with  the  accomplishments  of 
the  Soldier  ;  from  whence  we  derive  the  most  pleasing  Assurances 
that-  nothing  [221.]  on  your  part  will  be  ommitted,  which  may 
conduce  to  the  relief,  the  peace  and  good  order,  as  well  as  the 
defence  of  the  Town 

Voted,  unanimously,  the  foregoing  Memorial  and  Address,  be 
attested  by  the  Town  Clerk,  and  that 

John  Brown  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  together  with 
John  Scollay  Esqr.  Samuel  Austin  Esqr.  Jonathan  "Williams  Esqr. 
Mr.  Harbottle  Dorr.  Cap4.  Gustavus  Fellows,  Cap'.  John  Preston 
Deacon  Thomas  Grenough,  Mr.  Nathan  Frazier  and  Ezekiel  Price 
Esqr.  Selectmen  and  William  Cooper  Town  Clerk  be  a  Committee 
to  present  the  same  in  behalf  of  the  Town 

On  a  Motion  made,  that  the  Inhabitants  might  be  directed  to 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  four  Persons,  to  be  added  to  the  Com- 
mittee for  borrowing  Moneys  and  purchasing  Flour  &c  —  the 
Votes  for  four  Persons  were  accordingly  brought  in  and  sorted 
when  it  appeared,  that 

•  Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
James  Bowdoin  Junr.  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Barret  Jur. 
were  chosen 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed,  for  the 
special  business  of  making  enquirey,  with  respect  to  some  Persons, 
who  lost  to  the  feelings  of  Humanity  are  at  this  Season  of  dis- 
tress, endeavouring  to  enrich  their  little  Selves  by  Monopolizing 
and  forestalling  the  Necessaries  of  Life  and  that  they  Report  at 
the  Adjournment  such  Facts  as  they  can  ascertain 
[222.]  Voted,  that  Cap1.  John  Ballard 

Mr.  John  Kennedy 
Mr.  Adam  Colson 
Mr.  Moses  Grant 
Mr.  Thomas  Uran 
Mr.  Joseph  Lovering 
Mr.  Ebenezer  Edes 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  afore- 
said 

On  a  Motion.  Voted,  that  the  Committee  of  Nine,  chosen  to 
consider  what  is  proper  to  be  done  &c.  be  directed  to  prepare  a 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  41 

Vote  defining  the  power  and  duty  of  the  Committee  appointed  to 
borrow  Money  and  purchase  Flour  &c  —  also 

Voted,  that  said  Committee  of  Nineteen  be  desired  to  proceed 
immediately  in  procuring  Subscriptions,  and  purchasing  such 
Articles  as  they  may  Judge  for  the  Interest  of  the  Town 

Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  10.  O:  Clock  Forenoon  —  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  of  Nine,  appointed  to  consider  and  Report  the 
Steps  proper  to  be  taken  under  the  present  alarming  —  scarcity  of 
Bread  Corn  and  to  prevent  the  further  progress  of  Monopoly  and 
Forestalling  having  Reported  in  part,  and  the  Town  having 
accepted  said  partial,  Report,  and  in  consequence  thereof  chosen  a 
Committee  of  Nineteen  to  receive  Subscriptions  of  Monies  to  be  paid 
into  the  hands,  of  [223.]  The  Town  Treasurer,  for  the  Purpose  of 
purchasing  Flour  and  Grain  —  and  the  Town  having  referred  to 
this  Committee  to  consider  of  proper  Powers  and  Instructions  to 
be  given  to  the  Committee  aforesaid,  in  order  to  their  adopting 
the  line  of  Conduct  intended  by  the  Town  in  their  appointment ; 
having  attended  that  service  beg  leave  to  Report  the  following 
Commission 

To  the  Committee  for  receiving  Subscriptions,  and  purchasing 
Flour  and  Grain  &c  — 

Gentlemen 

Taking  into  our  Serious  consideration  the  present  very  partial 
Supply  of  Flour,  Grain,  and  other  Necessaries  of  Life,  and  deeply 
affected  with  the  Melancholy  prospect  of  these  Misiries,  which 
threaten  us  Unless,  some  speedy  and  effectual  Measures  are 
Adopted  to  ward  them  off,  The  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston, 
in  legal  Town  Meeting  Assembled,  reposing  special  Confidence  in 
your  Integrity,  Prudence,  and  Humanity,  have  made  chose  of  you 
as  their  Committee  for  the  sole  purpose  of  making  as  early  Provi- 
sion as  possible  of  the  aforementioned  Articles  of  Subsistence,  and 
selling  the  same  to  the  Inhabitants 

But  in  order  to  facilitate  your  Proceedings  in  said  concern,  and 
to  prevent  the  Artifices  of  Monopolizers  and  forestallers  from 
counteracting  your  salutary  purposes  and  Measures,  we  have 
thought  proper  to  give  and  do  hereby  give  you  the  following 
Powers  and  Instructions,  Viz4. 

[224.]  You  are  in  the  first  place  impowered  and  directed  to 
open  a  Subscription  for  raising  by  Loan  a  Sum  of  Money  adequate 
to  the  design  ;  the  same  to  be  paid  into  the  hands  of  the  Town 
Treasurer,  who  is  already  impowered,  and  is  hereby  ordered  to  give 
his  Recepts  to  the  Subscribers  for  the  same,  paj'able  with  Interest 
in  Six  Months  or  a  shorter  term,  not  less  than  three  Months,  as 
may  be  by  them   limitted. 

And  you  are  further  impowered  to  draw  upon  said  Treasurer 
for  any  Sum  or  Sums  so  deposited  with  him,  who  is  ordered  to  pay 
the  same  on  demand  ;  which  sum  or  Sums,  you  are  to  lay  out  by 
your  selves  or  agents  in  Flour  and  Grain,  as  you  shall  Judge  most 
conducive  to  the  Relief  of  the  Inhabitants  ;  under  their  present 
or  future  distresses,  said  Flour  and  Grain  to  be  brought  as  soon  as 
possible  into  the   Town,  and  deposited  in  the  Granary  or  such 


42  City  Document  No.   80. 

other  Store,  as  you  shall  Judge  most  convenient  under  the 
care  and  Conduct  of  Such  Person,  or  Persons,  as  you  shall 
appoint  —  said  Flour  and  Grain  to  be  delivered  out  to  the  Inhab- 
itants, and  to  them  only  under  your  directions  at  the  Cost  and 
Charges  — 

The  Money  arising  from  the  Sale  thereof  you  are  to  deposit 
again  in  the  hand  of  the  Treasurer,  aforesaid,  Subject  to  your 
occasional  drafts,  who  is  hereby  ordered  to  receive  and  pay  the 
Same  as  aforesaid.  —  and  you  are  impower'd  and  directed  to  lay 
said  Moneys,  out  and  repay  them  to  the  Treasurer,  as  they  shall 
arise  from  [235.]  The  Sale,  in  the.  manner  prescribed,  as  often 
as  the  time  limitted  for  the  repayment  of  them  to  the  Subscribers 
will  admit,  and  the  Necessities  of  the  Inhabitants  shall  in  your 
Judgement  require  — 

The  Charge  of  Agents  Commissaries  Storekeepers  and  Clerks, 
of  Storage,  Expresses,  Transportation,  and  other  necessary  costs 
attending  your  purchases  and  Sales,  are  to  be  included  in  the 
price  at  which  you  shall  direct  the  Provisions  aforesaid  to  be 
sold. 

You  are  further  directed  to  keep  proper  Records  of  your  pro- 
ceedings under  this  Commission,  and  fair  accounts  of  the  Monies 
received  and  paid,  and  of  the  Provisions,  purchased  and  delivered, 
and  to  lay  the  same  before  the  Town,  when  called  for. 

And  as  occasion  may  require  the  interposition  and  assistance  of 
the  General  Assembly,  of  this  State,  you  are  impowered  and 
direct'd  to  make  such  application  for  such  purposes  as  to  you  may 
seem  proper  and  necessary  —  And  finally  to  do  all  such  matters 
and  things  and  in  such  sort  respecting  the  Premisses  and  the 
mode  and  Medium  of  purchases  not  heretofore  dischribed  and 
limitted,  as  your  discretion,  or  that  of  any  Seven  of  you  which 
shall  be  a  Quorum  for  all  purposes,  shall  dictate 

Your  Committee  further  Report  that  [226.]  They  have  been 
favioured  with  a  true  Copy  of  the  Bill  now  pending  in  the  Great 
and  General  Court  for  preventing  Monopolies,  Forestalling  &c. 
and  natter  themselves,  that  if  compleated  according  to  its  design 
and  intended  improvements  it  will  answer  the  salutary  purposes  of 
such  a  Bill  and  render  any  proceedings,  of  this  Town,  except  such 
as  may  be  had  in  legal  Acts  of  its  Execution  when  promulgated 
unnecessary,  and  they  therefor  recomend  a  Recommitment  of  that 
Article  of  the  Warrant  calling  this  Meeting  on  which  this  Clause 
of  their  Report  is  grounded  untill  the  Adjournment 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  duly  considered,  it  was 
Voted,  that  the  same  be  accepted,  and  that  a  fair  Copy  of  the 
Commission  to  the  Committee,  for  borrowing  and  purchasing  at- 
tested by  the  Town  Clerk  be  delivered  the  Chairman  of  said  Com- 
mittee 

The  Committee  appointed  to  present  the  Memorial  and  Address 
of  this  Town  to  the  HonbIe.  Horatio  Gates  Esqr.  Major  General 
and  Commander  of  the  Army  of  the  United  States  in  the  Eastern 
Department  —  Reported  that  they  had  presented  said  Memorial 
and  Address,  and  received  the  following  Reply  which  they  now 
lay  before  the  Town  Viz'. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  43 

Gentlemen 

The  Provision  which  has  been  made  for  the  Relief 
of  the  Poor  of  Boston  is  a  testimoney  [22 7.]  That  watchfull 
Beneficence,  which  has  characterised  its  Inhabitants  —  To  be  de- 
prived of  the  Measures  of  Immediately  forwarding  the  execution 
of  their  generious  Designs,  is  a  most  painfull  Situation,  which 
affects  me  to  a  Degree,  which  their  own  Feelings  will  make  them 
Conceive  better  than  I  can  describe  ;  but  the  present  State  of  the 
publick  Stores  disables  me  from  indulging  the  Pleasure,  which  the 
full  gratification  of  their  Request  would  afford  me  —  I  shall  do 
every  thing  in  my  Power,  as  soon  as  the  expected  Supplies  arrives, 
to  Wince   [sic  ?  evince]  the  Sincerity  of  this  Declaration. 

The  Politeness  with  which  in  Town  Meeting  they  have  expressed 
their  Satisfaction  in  seeing  me  at  the  Head  of  the  Eastern  De- 
partment, is  to  me  an  additional  Motive  for  not  beiug  remiss  in 
my  Attention  to  prove  my  Self,  on  all  Occasions  a  Citizen,  as  well 
as  a  Soldier. 

Providence  having  been  pleased  to  f  aviour  that  Part  of  the  Army 
which  the  Command  of  which  I  was  interested,  against  our  En- 
emies, I  never  can  forget  how  much  I  am  indebted  to  the  Intripid- 
ity  and  Fortitude  of  the  Officers  and  Soldiers  of  this  State,  for 
the  little  Reputation  I  may  have  acquired.  Gratitude  and  Human- 
ity will  urge  me  to  neglect  no  Opportunity  for  relieving  their  dis- 
tressed Bretheren,  whenever  it  shall  be  compatible,  with  the  good 
of  the  Service 

Horatio  Gates 

[228.]  The  Committee  of  Nineteen  for  borrowing  Moneys, 
purchasing  Flour  &c.  having  acquainted  the  Town  that  they  were 
like  to  meet  with  difficulties,  on  account  of  the  late  Resolve  of 
Congress  respecting  certain  Emissions,  of  Money  whereupon 
agreeable  to  a  Motion 

Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this  Matter  be  referred  to  the 
Adjournment  of  this  Meeting,  and  that  said  Committee  be  desired 
to  proceed  in  procuring  Subscriptions,  and  to  report  the  State 
thereof  at  the  Adjournment. 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  the  North  Doors  and  Windows  of  the 
Market,  be  put  up  by  the  Selectmen. 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Committee  who  presented 
the  Towns  Memorial  and  Address  to  General  Gates,  be  desired  to 
waite  upon  him  and  appoligize  for  the  purporting  [sic  ?  postponing] 
the  Printing  said  Address,  and  the  Generals  Reply,  for  a  short 
time,  that  our  Enemies  might  [?  not]  take  the  advantage  of  being 
acquainted  with  our  present  Necessities. 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Wednesday  Next  the 
27  Instant.  10.  0. Clock  Forenoon 

Wednesday  Jany.  27.  10.  0. Clock  A:  M:  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

The  Committee  of  Nine  appointed  to  consider  of  the  proper 
Steps  to  be  taken,  relative  to  the  Present  scarcity  of  Flour  &c. 
acquainted  the  Inhabitants,  that  the  Bill  relative,  to  Monopolizers, 
and  [229.]  Forestallers,  was  still  pending  in  the  General  As- 


44  City  Document  No.   80. 

sembly,  which  prevents  their  making  Report  on  Matter  at  this 
Adjournment  but  they  hoped  they  might  be  able  to  do  it  at  the 
next  Adjournment 

The  Committee  of  Nineteen  appointed  to  borrow  Moneys,  and 
purchase  Flour,  &c  Reported  Verbeally  —  That  they  had  constantly 
attended  to  the  business  of  their  appointment ;  and  have  already 
made  sum  Contracts  for  Flour  in  the  Country,  and  are  like  soon 
to  have  a  Supply  for  the  Inhabitants  — that  they  had  received  such 
assistance  from  General  Gates  as  will  greatly  facilitate  the  entra- 
ducing  into  this  State  the  Flour  wanted  —  that  they  had  already 
procured,  Subscriptions  for  about  Twenty  thousand  Pounds,  Cur- 
rent Monies,  which  is  to  be  paid  immediately 

The  Committee  of  Seven  appointed  to  make  enquirey  relative  — 
to  Monopolizers,  and  —  Acquaint  the  Town  that  they  were  not 
able  to  make  Report  at  this  Adjournment,  agreeable  to  the  Injunc- 
tions of  the  Town,  though  they  have  carefully  attended  to  the 
buisiness  assigned  them,  but  expect  they  shall  be  ready  to  make 
Report  at  the  Next   Meeting 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to 
Tuesday  next  the  2d.  of  February  10.  OClock  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned. 

February  2d.  Tuesday  10.  0. Clock  Forenoon  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

[230.]  The  Committee  of  Nine  appointed  to  consider  of  the 
proper  Steps  to  be  taken  relative  to  the  present  scarciety  of  Flour 
&c  Reported  —  That  amendments  had  been  made  in  the  Monopoly 
Bill  now  pending  in  the  General  Assembly ;  but  as  it  was  still 
under  the  Revision  of  the  Court,  they  were  not  now  able  to  give 
their  Sentiments  thereon  to  the  Town  Meeting 

The  Committee  of  Nineteen  appointed  for  the  purpose  of  bor- 
rowing Moneys  by  Subscription  and  purchasing  Flour  &c  ac- 
quainted the  Town  that  they  were  now  only  able  to  inform  hem 
that  a  Person  had  been  already  dispatched  to  the  Northward  to 
secure  some  Flour,  in  that  quarter 

The  Committee  of  seven  appointed,  to  Enquire  into  the  Con- 
duct of  Forestallers  Engrossers  and  Monopolizers,  and  to  ascer- 
tain Facts  —  Reported  in  part 

That  on  or  about  the  fourteenth  of  January  last,  Matthew  Fair- 
service  purchased  a  quantity  of  Rum  and  Sugar  at  Salem  and 
Marblehead  that  he  gave  forty  Pounds  for  the  Sugar  p  Hundred, 
and  thirteen  Dollars  p  Gallon  for  the  Rum 

That  about  the  same  time  John  Fairservice  purchased  a  large 
quantity  of  Sugar,  for  which  he  says  he  gave  £45.  —  and  £47. 
10/ p  hundred,  and  sold  them  for  £58. — p  hundred  which  gave 
him  an  extravagant  Profit  of  £10:  10/  and  £13.  —  p  hundr'd ; 
which  obliges  the  Poor  Consumer  to  pay  a  still  [231.]  Greater 
price  to  the  Retailer,  by  means  of  which  engrossing  your  Com- 
mittee look  upon  the  Town  greatly  injured 

That  one  Sampson  Reed  a  Stranger  is  suspected  of  Engrossing 
and  Forestalling  the  Necessaries  of  Life  —  that  in  a  particular 
Manner  he  has  monopolized  a  great  quantity  of  Glass,  for  a  Con- 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  •     45 

siderable  quantity  of  which  he  did  not  give  £30. — p  Box  and 
sold  it  for  £100  — p  Box  —  that  he  has  had  twenty  four  Boxes  of 
Window  Glass  in  halves,  some  of.  which  he  has  sold  for  ten  Shil- 
lings a  Square,  to  the  great  determent  of  the  Community 

That  your  Committee  are  seeking  proof  against  Sundry  others, 
and  shall  be  ready  to  Report  at  an  Adjournment  or  some  future 
Meeting 

John  Ballard 

The  foregoing  Report  haviug  been  read  and  Considered,  it  was 
Voted,  that  the  same  be  accepted,  and  that  the»said  Committee  of 
Seven  be  desired  to  proceed  in  the  Business  assigned  them  by  the 
Town  and  that  tbey  do  Report  at  the  next  Meeting  what  Steps 
they  may  Judge  it  will  be  best  for  the  Town  to  take  with  such 
Persons  as  are  found  guilty*  of  Monopolizing  &c.  on  a  Motion, 
Voted  that  all  matters  and  things  which  remaine  unfinished  at  this 
Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  next  Town  Meeting,  then  to  be 
acted  upon 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


[232.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  Town  of  Boston  duely  qualified  and  legally  Warned, 
in  Publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Fryday 
the  19th  Day  of  February  Anno  Domini  1779  —  3.  O'Clock  P.M. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in -their 
Votes,  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
brought  and  sorted,  it  Appear'd  that 

>  John  Brown  Esqr 

was  chosen  unanimously 

The  Committee  of  Seven  appointed  to  make  enquirey  relative  to 
Fore  Stallers  and  Monopolizers — Report  further — That  Two  of 
the  Committee  Viz*.  Lovering  and  Edes,  hearing  that  Mr.  William 
Foster,  had  purchased,  amono  other  Articles,  eight  Barrels  of 
Flour  for  the  benefit  of  the  Toww,  as  he  said  at  £15  —  p  and 

that  after  the  Teamster  had  sold  it  to  him,  the  said  Teamster,  after- 
wards, sold  it  again  to  a  Person  not  an  Inhabitant  of  this  Town, 
for  twenty  two  Pounds  p  hundred  ;  the  above  Lovering,  and  Edes, 
enquiring  into  the  case  found  it  to  be  true  whereupon  they  ad- 
vised and  directed  the  Teamster,  to  carry  it  from  along  side  the 
Vessel,  on  board  of  which  it  was  going  to  Mr.  Fosters,  Store 
which  was  accordingly  done  February  5th.  1779 

[233.]  The  Committee  hearing  of  One  Williams,  who  had 
been  an  Engrosser  and  that  a  Deposition  had  been  taken  relative 
to  the  same,  obtained  the  sight  thereof  which  is  as  follows  Viz'. 

Boston  Decemr.  29th.  1778. 

I  Joshua  Hubbard  Peruke  Maker  testify  and  declare  that  on 
Saturday  last  the  26  Day  of  December  Currant,  I  was  employed 
by  Samuel  Williams,  of  Roxbury,  as  an  Assistant  in  disposing  of 
his  Meat  in  Boston  Market,  and  was  with  him  from  the  beginning 
of  the  Sale,  untill  he  sold  the  whole  of  his  Marketting,  and  was 
present  when  he  counted  the  Money  over  in  order  to  determine 
what  profits  he  made  in  the  Course  of  the  Day,  and  heard  him 


46     *  City  Document  No.  80. 

say,  that  out  of  four  hundred  and  fifty  Dollars,  he  was  then  pos- 
sessed of,  he  on  that  Day  cleared  two  hundred  Dollars  his  Load 
that  he  brought  with  him,  having  cost  him  but  one  hundred  and 
fifty  Dollars,  and  added  I  have  got  a  damned  sight  of  Money 

On  the  ninth  of  February  the  Committee  had  information,  that 
one  Dowse,  and  one  Daniel  Cane  Bakers,  had  purchased  some 
Flour  and  sold  it  again  to  other  Baker's  for  an  advanced  price,  to 
the  detriment  of  the  Poor. of  the  Town,  the  Committee  required 
their  Attendance  the  Same  Day  and  they  accordingly  come,  when 
they  weare  asked  the  following  Questions  Viz1. 

Q —     Mr.  Dowse  have  you  bought  any  Flour  lately 
A:      Yess  I  have  bought  some  Rye'  and  Wheat  [234.]  Flour, 
for  which   I  gave  £17.  10/  and  £18-  p  hundred  and  sold  it  to  M1. 
Hart  Baker  for  £20  p  cwt. 

Q.     Have  you  now  practized  giving  a  higher  price  for  Flour  than 
other  Bakers 
A.     No 

Mr.  Dowse  then  said  that  Mr.  Henry  Bass  come  to  him  and 
offered  him  Flour  for  £20  —  p  cwt.  for  Money  out  of  Circulation, 
that  he  purchased  3  Bills  :  for  that  Sum,  and  Sold  it  for  the  Same 
price  for  good  Money  —  He  further  said  that  Mr.  Bass  asked  him 
but  £14 —  p  cwt.  a  few  days  before. 

Q.     Mr.  Daniel  Cane  have  you  bought  any  Flour  lately  — 
A.     Yess.  I  bought  of  Mr.  Henry  Bass  Fight  Barrels  of  Flour 
for  £18  —  p  cwt  and  sold  it  to  Mr.  Hart  for  £20  — p  cwt. 

They  were  then  both  asked  why  they  did  not  Bake  it,  their 
Answer  was  because  they  got  a  higher  Profit  for  selling  it — The 
Committee  then  desired  they  would  refrain  from  such  practices, 
and  they  promised  they  Would  — 

The  Committee  have  observed  the  extravagant  price  of  Fish, 
asked  by  the  Fishermen  at  the  Town  Dock  ;  and  would  recommend 
that  some  Step's  may  be  taken  by  the  Town  for  regulating  the 
price  of  that  necessary  Article  of  Life ;  especially  as  Fishermen 
from  the  Neighbouring  Towns,  who  have  come  in  with  their  Fish 
and  sold  them  at  a  moderate  rate  have  had  their  Riggen  &c  cut  to 
pieces  in  the  Night  time,  and  their  Fish  thrown  into  the  Docks  by 
some  evil  minded  Persons  —  Upon  the  whole  the  Committee  beg 
[235.]  to  Report,  that  it  was  their  Opinion,  that  the  Names  of 
all  who  are  found  guilty  of  Monopolising  the  Necessaries  of  Life, 
should  be  held  up  to  publick  View  but  since  the  Monopolizing  Act 
is  now  in  force,  the  Committee  humbly  submit  their  Opinion  to  the 
Consideration  of  the  Town. 

John  Ballard  Chairman 
The  foregoing  Report  having   been    received   and   considered, 
Voted,  that  the  same  be  accepted  —  also 

Voted  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  are  hereby  given  to 
the  Committee  aforesaid  for  their  diligent  and  faithfull  discharge 
of  their  duty 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  make  choice  if  the  Town 
shall  Judge  proper  of  a  Number  of  Persons,  not  exceeding  Twelve 
to  be  inspectors  of  the  Market  &c  agreeable  to  a  late  Act  of  the 
General  Assembly  of  this  State,  Fntitl'd  an  Act  against  Monopoly 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  47 

and  Forestalling  was  read  and  considered  —  as  also  the  Act  afore 
mention'd 

In  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Town  hereby  express  their 
higest  disapprobation  of  the  Conduct  of  the  Persons  Reported  by 
the  Committee  of  seven  as  Monopolizers  and  Forestallers,  and  that 
they  will  proceed  with  after  Offenders  of  this  kind  as  their  Offen- 
cies  may  deserve,  and  the  Laws  will  Justify 

Voted,  to  proceed  to  the  choice  of  a  Committee  of  Inspection, 
agreeable,  to  the  Allowance  of   a  late  Act  of  the  General  Assem- 
bly and  that  the  Committee  Consist  of  twelve  Persons 
[236.]     Voted,  that  Cap*.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  John  Kennedy 
Mr.  Adam  Colson 
.  Mr.  Moses  Grant 
Mr.  Thomas  Uran 
M1'.  Joseph  Lovering 
Mr.  Benjamin  Edes 
Mr.  Samuel  Rnggles 
Mr.  Richard  Hunnewell 
Mr.  Joseph  Shed 
Mr.  Jacob  Roads 
Cap1.  Alexander  Willson 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be  given  to  John  Brown 
Esqr.  Moderator  of  this  Town  Meeting  for  his  good  Services 
Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Fryday  the  5th.  Day 
of  March  Anno  Domini  1779 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Honble:  John  Hancock  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  by  a  unanimous  Vote 

[237.]  The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  the  o  of 
March  last  to  apply  to  a  proper  Gentleman  to  deliver  an  Oration 
the  oth.  of  March  Instant,  to  perpetuate  the  memory  of  the  horred 
Massacre,  perpetrated  on  the  Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770 
by  a  Party  of  Soldiers  under  the  Command  of  Cap4.  Thomas 
Preston  of  the  29th.  Regiment  Reported 

That  having  met  together  for  the  purposes  mentioned  in  the 
Towns  Votes  they  had  unanimously  made  choice  of  Col°.  William 
Tuder  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th.  of  March  Inst4:  who  had 
according  accepted  of  that  service 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  by  the  Town  Clerk  one 
of  the  Committee,  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall 
be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Upon  a  Motion  made  the  Town  took  into  consideration,  what 
would  be  the  best  time  to  have  the  Oration  pronounced  ;  as  also 
what  place  would  be  most  suitable  for  the  purpose  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Oration  be  delivered  at  12  O'Clock  at  the  Old 
Brick  Meeting  House,  the  Hall  not  being  Capacious  enough  to  re- 


48  City  Document  No.    <S0. 

ceive    the    Inhabitants   that   Attended   upon  the  Occasion  —  the 
Committee  of  that  Society  having  before  consented  that  the  Meet- 
ing House,  should  be  made  use  of,  for  said  purpose 
[238.]     Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 

Col0.  Nathan1.  Barber 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
be  a  Committee  to  waite  on  Col0.  William  Tuder  Esq1",  and  ac- 
quaint him  that  it  is  the  desire  of  the  Town,  that  the  Oration  may 
be  delivered  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House.  12  O'Clock  this  Day 
Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  order  the  several  Bells 
in  the  Town  to  be  tolled  for  half  an  Hour,  beginning  at  one  quar- 
ter of  an  Hour  after  9.  O'Clock 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  the  Old  Brick  Meet- 
ing House  —  at  12  O'Clock  Forenoon 

The  Town  met  according  to  Adjournment  12.  O. 'Clock,  at  the 
Old  Brick  Meeting  House 

The  Committee  appointed  to  waite  upon  William  Tuder  Esqr.  to 
acquaint  him  with  the  Vote  of  the  Town  respecting  the  time  and 
place  for  the  delivery  of  an  Oration  —  Reported  —  That  said 
Gentleman  was  ready  to  comply  with  the  Orders  of  the  Town 
An  Oration  to  commemorate  the  horred  Massacre  of  the  Fifth 
of  March  1770  —  and  to  impress  upon  the  Minds  of  the  Citizens, 
the  ruinous  tendency  of  Standing  Armes,  being  placed,  in  Free 
and  Populous  Cities  &c.  was  deliver'd  by  William  Tuder  Esqr.  to 
a  Large  and  Crouded  Audience,  and  received  by  them  with  great 
Applause 

[239.]     On  a  Motion  made  and  Seconded 
Voted,  that  the  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq1'. 
William  Cooper 
Mr.  Barth0.  Kneeland 
Perez  Morton  Esq1. 
John  Lowell  Esq1'. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
John  Scollay  Esqr. 
William  Tuder  Esqr.  \_sic] 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Waite  upon  William 
Tudor  Esqr.  and  in  the  Name  of  the  Town  to  thank  him  for  the 
Spirited  and  elegant  Oration  deliver'd  by  him  at  their  request,  in 
■commemoration  of  the  horred  Massacre  perpetrated  on  the  Even- 
ing of  the  5th.  of  March  1770.  by  a  party  of  Soldiers  of  the  29l\ 
Regiment  under  the  Command  of  Cap1.  Thomas  Preston,  and  to 
request  of  him  a  Copy  thereof  for  the  Press. 
On  a  Motion  made  and  Seconded 
Voted,  that  the  Honblc.  John  Hancock  Esqr. 
William  Cooper 
Mr.  Barth0.  Kneeland 
Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
John  Lowell  Esq1. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
John  Scollay  Esq1". 
William  Tudor  Esq1". 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  apply  to  a  proper 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  49 

Gentleman,  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5lh.  of  March  next  to  per- 
petuate the  Memory  of  the  horred  Massacre  perpetrated  on  the 
Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770  by  a  party  of  Soldiers  of  the 
2!)th.  Regiment  [240.]  Under  the  Command  of  Cap'.  Thomas 
Preston  ;  and  to  impress  upon  our  Minds,  the  ruinous  tendency  of 
Standing  Armies,  being  placed,  in  Free  and  populous  Cities  in  a 
time  of  peace ;  and  the  Necessety  of  such  noble  Exertions,  in  all 
future  times  ;  as  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  then  made,  whereby 
the  Designs  of  the  Consperators  against  the  Publick  Peace,  may  be 
still  frustrated 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  8th.  Day  of 
March  Anno,  Domini   1779 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd:   Mr.  Clark 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

Sundry  Laws  enjoined  to  be  read  at  this  Meeting  were  accord- 
ingly read 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr,  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  by  a  unanimous  Vote,  and  took  his  Seat  accordingly 

Mr.  William  Cooper  was  chosen  Town  Clerk  for  the  Year  en- 
suing, and  took  the  Oath  of  Office  for  the  faithfull  discharge  of 
his  duty,  which  Oath  was  administr'd  by  Mr.  Justice  Greenleaf 

[241.]     The  Town  proceeded  to  the  choice  of  Nine  Selectmen y 
and  the  Votes  being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 
John  Scollay  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Austin 
Cap4.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Mr.  Harbottle  Don- 
Deacon  Thomas  Greenough 
Jouathan  Williams  Esqr. 
Cap4.  John  Preston 
Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1. 
were  chosen  Selectmen  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Committee  of  Cor- 
respondence, Inspection  and  Safety  and  upon  sorting  them  it 
appeared  that 

Nathaniel  Barber  Esqr. 
Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 
Cap4.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Mr.  John  Winthrop 
Cap4.  Amasa  Davis 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Cap4.  John  Simpkins 
Joseph  Webb  Esq1". 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esq1. 
Andrew  Symms  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles 
Mr.  Sarson  Belcher 


50  City  Document  No.   SO. 

where    chose    a   Committee    of   Correspondence,  Inspection,  and 
Safety  for  the  Year  ensuing 

[342.]     The  Inhabitants   brought  in  their   Votes  for  Twelve 
Overseers  of  the  Poor,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 
The  Honble.  William  Phillips  Esq1'. 

Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 

Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 

Cap'.  Samuel  Partridge 

Mr.  Samuel  Whitwell 

Mr.  John  White 

Edward  Proctor  Esqr. 

William  Powell  Esqr. 

Mr.  John  Sweetser  Junr. 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 

M1.  Samuel  Hews 

Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
were  chosen  Overseers  of  the  Poor  for  the  year  ensuing. 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  twelve  Wardens,  and 
upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

Cap*.  Amasa  Davis 

Mr.  John  Lucas 

Majr.  Thomas  Melvil  —  excused 

Mr.  John  Ingersol 

Mr.  Simeon  Eliot 

Mr.  Cornelius  Thayer 

Mr.  Joseph  Kettle 

Mr.  John  R.  Sigourney 

Mr.  John  Jenkins 

Mr.  Samuel  Conant 

Mr.  Joseph  Ford 

Cap*.  Nath1.  Fellows 
were  chose  Wardens  for  the  Year  ensuing 

[243.]     The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Sixteen 
Fire  Wards,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

John  Scollay  Esqr. 

William  Cooper 

Edward  Proctor  Esq1". 

Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 

Capf.  John  Pulling 

Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 

Paul  Reviere  Esqr. 

Andrew  Syms  Esqr. 

Majr.  Joseph  Webb 

Mr.  John  Winthrop 

Mr.  Thomas  Tileslon 

Cap1.  Gnstavus  Fellows 

Cap1.  John  Ballard 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 

Mr.  John  Lowell 

Mr.  Thomas  Melvil 
were  chosen  fire  Wards  for  the  Year  ensuing. 


Boston   Town   Kecords,  1779.  51 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Town  Treasurer, 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

David  Jeffries  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Town  Treasurer  for  the  Year  ensuing. 

Votes  for  a  County  Treasurer  brought  in,  and  being  sealed  up  in 
Town  Meeting  were  delivered  to  Mr.  Constable  Bennet  to  be  by 
him  returned  to  the  Court  of  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace  at 
their  Next  Meeting 

[244.]     Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

8  O'Clock  P:  M:    Met  according  to  Adjournment 
Major  Edward  Carnes 
was  chosen  a  Surveyor  of  Hemp  :  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  John  Bulfinch 

Edward  Ranger 

Benjamin  White 

James  Blake 

John  Minzey 

James  Rogers 

Uriah  Norcross 

William  Moor 

Joseph  Ballard 

John  Champney 

John  Bell 

Moses  May 

William  Todd 

Nathaniel  Jenkins 

Joseph  Butler 

Thomas  Uran 

Abraham  Howard 

Moses  Ayres 

Henry  Blaisdel 

Clement  Collins  Junr. 
where  chosen  Surveyers  of  Boards  for  the  Year  ensuiug 
Messrs.  Uriah  Norcross 

Joseph  Daniels 

Samuel  Dyer 

William  Clough 

Nathaniel  Wales 
were  chose  Fence  Viewers  for  the  Year  ensuing 
[245.]     Messrs.  John  Gray 

Samuel  Bangs  . 

Isaac  Bird 

Moses  Bradley 
where  chose  Sealers  of  Leather  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Mr.  Adam  Colson 
was  chosen  an  Informer  of  Deer  for  ye.  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Joshua  Pico 

Job  Wheelwright 

Benjamin  Barnard 

John  Owen 

Samuel  Heyley 


52  City  Document  No.  SO. 

Joseph  Dyer 

AVilliaru  Corbit 

Israel  Cook 

Nathan  Spear 

Menassah  Masters 

Joseph  Hammat 
where  chosen  Cullars  of  Staves  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Samuel  Curtis 

Charles  Simpson 

Benjamin  Wheeler 
were  chose  Hogreeves  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  George  Hamlin 

Isaack  Tuckerman 
were  chose  Haywards  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Ward 

Messrs.  John  Clough  1 

Nathaniel  Baker  2 

Nath1.  Hitchbume  3 

[246.]  Freeman  Pulsipher  4 

James  Adams  5 

Moses  Bradley  6 

Daniel  Perry  7 

Jeremiah  Webb  8 

Daniel  Parks  9 

Thomas  Green  10 

Thomas  Wheeler  11 

Ebenezer  Perry  12 

were  chose  [Scavingers]  for  the  Y"ear  ensuing 

The  Selectmen 
were  chose  Surveyors  of  high  Wayes  for  the  Yrear  ensuing 
Jonathan  Williams  Esq1'. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Mr.  John  White 
were  chose  Purchasers  of  Grain  for  the  Year  ensuing,  and  they 
are  desired  and  impowered  to  give   all  needfull  direction  to  the 
Keeper  of  the   Granary,  respecting  the  quantity  of  Grain  to  be 
sold,  and  affixing  the  prices  thereof  from  time  to  time  as  occa- 
sion shall  require,  and  the  said  Committee  are  desired  and  directed 
to  cause  all  the  Grain  belonging  to  the  Town  to  be  ground  at  the 
New  Mills  near  the  Millbridgc 

Mess".  John  Lucas 
,  Edward  Edes 

were  chose  Surveyors  of  Wheat  for  the  Year  ensuing 
[247.]  Mess".  Thomas  Green 

John  Skiner 
were  chosen  Assay  Masters  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Thomas  Walley 
Ellis  Gray  P:sqr. 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 
Ebenezer  Storer  Esq1", 
be   and   they   hereby  are    appointed  a  Committee   to   Audit   the 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  53 

Accompts  of  David  Jeffries  Esqr.  Treasurer,  and  also  the  Ac- 
compts  of  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor  and  the  said  Committee  are 
impowered  when  they  shall  Audit  said  Accompts  to  allow  such  of 
the  Overseers  as  shall  Advance  Money,  for  the  Relief  of  the  Poor, 
Interest  on  all  such  Sums  from  the  Time  so  advanced,  untill  they 
shall  have  Audited  said  Accompts ;  and  they  are  also  desired  to 
Report  from  time  to  time  a  State  of  the  Treasurer,  respecting 
Debts  and  Credit,  and  on  any  matters,  that  they  may  think 
proper  — 

Upon  a  Motion  made  the  Question  was  put  Whether  Collectors 
of  Taxes  shall  be  chose  seperate  from  Constables  —  Passed  in 
the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 

Mr.  John  Lowell 
be  a  Committee  to  enquire  respecting  the  payments  made  by  the 
Collectors,  into  the  State,  County,  and  Town  Treasurers,    and  to 
make  Report  as  soon  as  may  be 

[248.]     The  Town  brought  in  their   Votes  for   twelve  Con- 
stables, the  following  Persons  were  chosen  Viz*. 
Messrs.  John  Bennet 

Benjamin  Clark 

Daniel  Parks 

John  Lambert  excused 

Samuel  Sumner  excused 

Oliver  Wiswell  excused 

John  Jepson 

Pool  Spear 

Thomas  Allen 

Thomas  Green 

Francis  Bigelow 

John  Daverson 
The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes    for  Seven  Assessors, 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  appear'd  that, 

Deacon  Jonathan  Brown 

Gyles  Harris  Esqr. 

Deacon  Thomas  Foster 

Mr.  George  B.  Gedney 

Mr.  Samuel  Dyer 

Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles         declines 

Mr.  John  Pulling 

Mr.  Moses  May 
were  chose  Assessors  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Voted  that  the  Assessors  be  and  hereby  are  impowered,  and 
directed  to  set  for  Abatement  of  such  Taxes,  as  they  shall  Judge 
reasonable  on  every  Day  of  the  [249.]  Month  following  the 
delivery  of  the  Tax  Books,  to  the  Collectors,  Lords  Days  ex- 
cepted, and  no  longer,  saving  that  they  be  allowed  to  set  the  two 
last  Weeks  in  November  for  the  Abatement  of  the  Taxes  of  such 
Persons  as  had  not  an  opportunity  of  applying  in  the  above  lim- 
ited time,  b}T  reason  of  their  being  out  of  the  State  ;  at  which  time 


54  City  Document  No.   (SO. 

they  are  also  allowed  and  impowered  to  abate  the  Taxes  of  such 
Persons  as  ma}'  have  died  Insolvent  before  the  last  day  of  No- 
vember 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 

John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Caleb  Davis  Esq1'. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1'. 
Samuel  Barrett  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  devise  some  way,  whereby  the  Assessors  may 
be  enabled  to  levey  the  Taxes  in  a  more  equitable  manner 
The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'. 

To  consider  the  request  of  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  that  some 
effectual  Measures  may  be  taken  for  the  immediate  supply  of  the 
Alms  House  with  such  Articles  as  are  absolutely  necessary  to  Sup- 
port the  Poor,  of  which  they  are  at  present  almost  totally  desti- 
tute", was  read  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  David  Jeffries  Esqr. 

Cap'.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Cap'.  Amasa  Davis 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
[250.]       Be  a  Committee  to   take  this  Matter  into   considera- 
tion, and  Report  as  soon  as  may  be,   what  is    best  to    be    done 
therein 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourn'd  to  Wednesday  next  9. 
O'Clock,  in  the  Forenoon 

Wednesday  the  10th.  Day  of  March  9.  O. Clock.  Forenoon.  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Town  brought  in  their  Votes  for  the  following  Persons  were 
chose  Clarks  of  the  Market  for  the  Year  ensuing —  Viz'. 
Messrs.  Luke  Baker 

William  Prentice 
Robinson  Crocker 
Oliver  Brewster 
John  Bright 
Elislia  Sigoney 
John  Coolidge 
out  of  Town  Daniel  Sears 

d°.         Cap'.  Gowen  Brown 
d°.  William  Knox 

John  Procter 
William  Scollay 
The  Town  brought  in  their  Votes  for  one  Warden  in  the  room 
of  one  who  had  declined  serving,  when  it  appeared 

Mr.  Benjamin  Sumner  J  if.  was  chosen  a  Warden  for  the  Year 
ensuing 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  To  consider  of  the  Petition  of 
the  Masters  of  the  Writing  Schools,  that  they  may  be  further 
considered  with  respect  [251.]  To  their  past  Services",  was 
read,  whereupon 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  55 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esq1". 
Cap1.  Amasa  Davis 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
be  a  Committee  to  take  up  the  Schoolmaster's  Petitions,  and  Report 
at  the  Adjournment,  what  allowancies  they  shall  Judge  to  be  Ade- 
quate for  their  past  services 

The  Committee  appointed  to  enquire  respecting  the  Payments 
made  by  the  Collectors  into  the  Town  County,  and  State  Treasu- 
ries—  Report — the  State  of  their  several  payments  into  the  re- 
spective Treasuries  out  of  the  Sums  they  had  committed  to  them 
to  Collect  the  past  Year  —  as  the  Report  on  the  file  will  more 
fully  appear 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted  that 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 

Perez  Morton  Esqr. 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 

Cap1.  Amasa  Davis 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley 

a  Committee  to  whom  the  Writing  Masters  Petitions,  —  be  also 

desired  to  Report  what  they  shall  Judge  to  be  a  suitable  Premium 

for  Collecting  the  Taxes  the  ensuing  Year 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  four  Collectors  of 
Taxes  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  — 
[252.']        Messrs.  Josiah  Torrey 

Francis  Law  Esq1. 
Benjamin  Sumner  Jur. 
James  Thompson 
were  chose  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  the  Year  ensuing. 
The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'. 

To  consider  the  request  of  a  number  of  the  Inhabitants,  that 
the  North  part  of  the  Town,  may  be  put  under  the  same  advan- 
tages as  the  South  with  respect  to  a  Lattin  Schoolmaster  —  was 
read  and  after  debate  had  thereon  —  a  Motion  was  made  and  the 
Question  accordingly  put  —  Whether  the  Town  will  direct  the 
North  Lattin  School  to  be  opened,  and  a  Master  appointed  for 
the  said  School  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  appoint  a  Master  for 
the  North  Grammar  School 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  measures  are  proper 
to  be  taken  for  the  immediate  Supply  of  the  Alms  house  with 
Necessaries,  —  Report'd  and  the  same  having  been  read,  and 
large  debate  had  thereon  —  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Re- 
port be  recommitted 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*. 

Whether  the  Town  will  make  Sale  of  any  part  of  their  Land,  on 
the  Neck  and  Else  where,  or  otherwise  improve  the  same  "  —  was 
read  whereupon 

[253.]     Voted  that  David  Jeffries  Esq'". 

Cap1.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Cap1.  Amasa  Davis 


56  City  Document  No.  80. 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  said  Article  and  Report  at  the  Ad- 
journment;  what  they  Judge  best  for  the  Town  to  do  thereon 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to 
enquire  into  the  expenditures  of  the  Moneys  which  have  been 
granted  by  the  Town,  and  what  sum  may  be  proper  to  be  Voted 
for  defraying  the  necessary  Expences  of  the  Town  the  ensuing 
Year  and  that  they  also  Report  the  Debts  that  are  yet  outstanding 
Voted,  that 

Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Ellis  Gray  Esq. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 
Adjourned  to  3  O  :Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  O:  Clock  P.M.  met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  relative  to  the  Supply  of  the  Almshouse,  and 
whether  it  would  be  best  to  make  Sale  of  the  Towns  Land  on  the 
Neck  &c.  Reported  and  the  same  being  read  — 

[254.]  Voted,  that  the  Consideration  of  the  Sale  of  Land,  be 
referred  to  the  Adjournment,  and  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed, 
to  Notify  the  Inhabitants  of  the  same  —  also  — 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  make  enquiry  rela- 
tive to  the  Towns  Title  to  their  Real  Estate  — 

Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of  the  best  and  most  ex- 
peditious Method  of  Supplying  the  Almshouse,  be  referred  to  the 
Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  devise  some  ways  whereby  the 
Assessors  may  be  enabled  to  levey  the  Taxes  on  the  Inhabitants 
in  a  more  equitable  way  —  Reported,  that  they  had  not  as  yet 
been  able  to  devise  any  method  for  that  purpose 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committee  of  twelve  Persons  be 
appointed  to  aid  the  Assessors  with  their  advice  relative,  to  an 
equal  levying  of  the  Taxes,  and  that  the  choice  of  a  Committee 
be  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

The  Committee  of  Nineteen  for  the  borrowing  Money  and  pur- 
chasing Flour  &c  —  acquainted  the  Town  with  their  proceedings 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  confer 
with  the  .Selectmen  of  the  Town  of  Roxbnry  respecting  the  Assise 
of  Bread  &c 

[255.~\  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourn'd  to  Fryday  the 
twelfth  Day  of  March  Current  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  — 

Fryday  the  12th  Day  of  March  1779  10.  O  :Clock  Forenoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  To  consider  what  regulations 
may  be  necessary  relative  to  Faneuil  Hall  and  the  Fish  Markets 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  57 

—  was  read  —  whereupon  Voted,,  that  this  Buissiness  of  regulat- 
ing said  Markets,  be  left  with  the  Gentlemen  the  Selectmen 

The  Selectmen  appointed  a  Committee  to  confer  with  the 
Selectmen  of  the  Town  of  Roxbury,  relative  to  the  Assise  of 
Bread  —  Reported  that  they  had  a  Conf errance  with  the  Select- 
men of  that  Town,  who  assured  them  of  their  readiness  to  co- 
operate with  us  with  respect  to  the  Assise  of  Bread 

The  Committee  "  to  consider  the  expediency  of  making  sale  of 
Towns  Land  on  the  Neck  and  elsewere  —  Reported  again,  and 
the  same  having  been  considered,  and  debated,  paragraph  by  Par- 
agraph—  the  Question  was  put — Whether  the  Town  will  accept 
of  said  Report  —  passed  in  the  Negative 

Adjourned  to  Three.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  0. Clock  P:   M:   Met  according  to  Adjournment 

That  Clause  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz4.  To  consider  what  Means 
shall  be  used  for  the  preservation  of  Beacon  Hill  &c  read,  whereupon 

[256.]  Voted,  that  this  Matter  be  left  to  the  Selectmen,  and 
that  they  be  hereby  authorised  and  directed,  to  persecute  in  Law 
any  Person,  who  shall  have  trespassed  upon  said  Hill 

Voted,  that  the  sum  of  Thirty  Thousand  Pounds  be  raised  by  a 
Tax,  upon  Polls  and  Estates  within  this  Town  for  the  Relief  of 
the  Poor  and  defreying  other  necessary  Charges  arising  within  the 
Town  the  ensuing  year 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz4.  To  consider  the  request  of  the 
Overseers  of  the  Poor,  that  some  effectual  Measures  may  be  taken 
for  the  immediate  Supply  of  the  Almshouse  &c  —  was  again  read 
and  considered  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Six  Thousand  Pounds,  out  of  the  Tax 
of  Thirty  Thousand  Pounds  already  Voted  to  defray  the  Charges 
of  the  Town  the  Year  ensuing,  be  appropriated  for  the  Sole  use  of 
the  Alms  house  — 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  directed 
and  impowered  to  borrow  in  Current  Money  a  Sum  not  exceeding 
Six  thousand  Pounds,  to  be  paid  to  the  Order  of  the  Overseers  of 
the  Poor,  in  the  Alms  House,  for  which  he  is  to  issue  his  negoti- 
able Notes,  payable  to  the  Lenders,  on  Interest  in  currant  Money 
out  of  the  present  Tax,  no  part  of  said  Sum  to  be  made  use  of  for 
any  other  purpose  —  also 

[257.]  Voted,  that  the  G-entlemen  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor 
be  a  Committee  to  procure  Subscriptions  for  the  Six  thousand 
Pounds,  to  be  appropriated  out  of  the  present  Tax  for  the  use  of 
the  Alms  House,  for  which  the  Treasurer  is  to  Issue  his  negoti- 
able Notes,  carrying  Interest,  payable  to  the  Lenders  in  Current 
Money  out  of  the  present  Tax 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  the  Petitions  of  the  School- 
masters and  Report  Meet  Sums  for  their  past  Services  up  to  the 
first  of  this  present  Month  March  the  following  Sums  Viz*. 

To  Mr.  Samuel  Holbrook,  a  Sum  which  with  what  has  been 
already  granted  the  past  year  will  make  up  Six  hundred  Pounds 
for  himself,  One  hundred  Pounds  for  his  Usher,  and  thirty  Pounds 
in  consideration  of  his  House  Rent 


58  City  Document  No.  80. 

To  Mr.  John  Tileston  the  Same  Sums 

To  Mr.  James  Carter,  the  same  Sum  except  the  thirty  Pounds, 
his  House  being  found  by  the  Town 

The  Committee  are  sorrey  to  observe  the  Just  complaints  of  the 
Schoolmasters,  on  account  of  their  not  receiving  in  season  the 
sums  which  are  granted  them,  and  recommend  it  to  the  Town, 
that  Some  method  may  be  taken,  that  they  be  timely  paid  in  future 
or  at  least  Interest  may  be  allowed  them  for  any  difficiency  to 
enable  them  to  pay  on  Interest  for  what  they  are  Obliged  to  bor- 
row for  their  dayley  Support 

J.  Barrel  p  order 

[258.]     Adjourned  to  iaext  Monday  Week  10  O, Clock  — 

Monday  22d.  March.  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon,  met  according  to 
Adjournment 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
having  acquainted  the  Town,  that  he  was  prevented  by  Sickness 
from  Attending  his  duty 

The  Inhabitants  were  thereupon  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring- 
in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator,  during  the  absence  of  Col0.  Han- 
cock—  and  the  Votes  being  accordingly  brought  in  and  sorted,  it 
appeared  that 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  Pro.  Tern  : 

Voted  that  the  consideration  of  Schoolmasters,  Salaries,  and 
all  other  Salaries  and  Grants,  be  referred  over  to  next  May 
Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "To  consider  what  further 
Method  can  be  taken  for  our  Relief  under  the  present  extravagant 
prices  of  the  Necessaries  of  Life  "  —  was  read  —  whereupon 

Voted  that  the  further  consideration  of  this  Article  be  reierred 
to  the  Ajournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz1. — To  consider  whether 
Measures  may  not  be  adopted  to  furnish  the  Inhabitants  with 
Vegitables  the  ensuing  Year,  at  a  Much  less  expence  then  there 
being  supplied  therewith  by  the  Neighbouring  Towns  —  was  read 
whereupon 

[259.]      Voted,  that  Mr.  Isaac  Pierce 
Mr.  Enoch  Brown 
Mr.  Samuel  Brick 
Cap1.  Job  Prince 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Mr.  Cornelius  Thayer 
Mr.  Andrew  Oliver 
be  a  Committee  to  take  this  matter  into  consideration,  and  to  Re- 
port at  the  Adjournment  what  they  Judge  best  for  the   Town  to 
do  thereon  —  Mr.  Benjamin  Sumner,  Mr.  Oliver  Wiswell  and  Mr. 
John  Lambert  Ju\  having  requested  the  Town  that  they  might  be 
excused  from  serving  as  Constables,  into  which  Office   they   had 
been  chosen  —  they  were  accordingly  excus'd 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  four  Constables,  and 
upon  soiling  them  it  appeared  that 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  59 

Messrs.  John  Kennedy excused 

Benjamin  Cudworth 
Robert  Wier 
John  Fullerton 
were  chose  Constables  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  one  Constable, 
wherein  it  appeared  that 

Mr.  John  Wells 
was  chosen  Constable  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Col0.  Proctor  having  requested  the  Town  to  be  excused  from 
the  Committee  appointed  to  Aid  the  Assessors  —  he  was  accord- 
ingly excused. 

[260.]     The   Article   in    the    Warrant — Viz1.     To    consider 
whether  any  Measures  shall  be  taken  to  prevent  Horses  going  at 
Large  on  the  Common  "  —  was  read  —  Whereupon 
Voted,  Cap*.  Samuel  Partridge 
Edward  Procter  Esq1". 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Mr.  Moses  Grant 
be   a   Committee   for    the   purpose   aforesaid,  to   Report  at   the 
Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant — Viz1.  Whether  the  Town  will  di- 
rect the  Selectmen  to  receive  the  portion  of  Fire  Arms  assigned 
the  Town,  and  now  lying  in  the  hands  of  the  Honble.  Board  of 
War  —  was  read  —  whereupon  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be 
directed  to  call  upon  the  Committee  for  purchasing  Arms,  for  the 
Moneys  left  in  their  hands 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  aforegoing  Vote,  be  reconsidered, 
and  that 

John  Marston 
Joseph  Barrel 
Cap1.  Jacob  Williams 
Mr.  Martain  Brimmer 
Cap'.  Joseph  Webb 
a  Committee  appointed  Last  Year  for  the  purchase  of  Small  Arms, 
be  desired  to  apply  to  the  Board  of  War  for  the   purchase  of  so 
many  of  the  Towns  proportion  of  small  Arms  Assigned   by  the 
General  Assembly,  as  they  have  Money  in  their  Hands,  and  may 
arise  by  the  further  sale  of  Small  Arms  to  the  Inhabitants  of  this 
Town  and  them  only — also 

[261.]     Voted,  that  Edward  Procter  Esqr. 
Col0.  Jabez  Hatch 
be  added  to  the  Committee 

Adjourned  to  Wednesday  31  Day  of  March  Currant  3.  O  :Clock, 
P.  M: 

Wednesday  31st.  of  March  1779.  3.  O  :Clock  P:  M:  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

General  Hancock  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  was  proper  to  be 
done  to  prevent  Horses  going  at  large  on  the  Common  —  Reported 

That  it  is  their  Opinion  the  Fine  for  Horses  going  at  large  be 


60  City  Document  No.  80. 

aughmeuted  to  forty  shillings  which  they  think  will  be  sufficient  to 
prevent  such  practises  in  future,  and  that  application  be  made  to 
proper  Authority  for  the  above  purpose  all  which  is  humbly  Sub- 
mitted 

Sam:  Partridge  Chairman 

The  foregoing  Report  being  read,  after  some  debate  had 
thereon,  a  Motion  was  made,  that  the  further  consideration  of 
this  Report  be  referred 

The  Committee  appointed  to  take  into,  consideration  whether 
Measures  may  not  be  adopted  to  furnish  the  Inhabitants  with 
Vegitables  the  ensuing  Year  at  a  much  less  expence  than  there 
being  supplied  therewith  by  the  Neighbouring  Towns  —  beg  leave 
to  Report,  that  it  is  their  Opinion,  it  will  be  much  for  the  Interest 
of  the  Town,  to  have  as  much  of  the  Waste  Land  in  this  Town  as 
may  be  [263.]  Improved  for  raising  Vegitables  for  the  Inhabi- 
tants more  especially  a  certain  Tract  of  Land  at  West  Boston  con- 
taining Twenty  Acres  or  upward  belonging  to  the  following 
Proprietors,  who  have  consented  the  same  shall  be  improved  for 
the  above  purpose  free  of  Rent  Viz1.  Cap'.  Job  Prince.  Mr.  Heze- 
kiah  Blanchard,  the  Heirs  of  James  Allen,  the  Heirs  of  John  and 
Thomas  Leaverett.  Mr.  Andrew  Symms,  Mr.  Clough,  Mr.  Harris, 
Dr.  Sprague.  Mr.  Edward  Carnes,  and  Mr.  Sumner ;  the  Com- 
mittee are  therefore  of  Opinion  that  the  Town  be  at  the  expence 
of  inclosing  said  Lands,  and  that  some  suitable  Person  or  Persons 
be  appointed  to  carry  the  same  into  execution,  and  also  to  Lease 
out  the  same  to  such  Persons  as  will  cultivate  the  said  Land, 
agreeable  to  his  or  their  contract 

Job  Prince  Chairman 

The  foregoing  Report  being  read  and  considered 

Voted,  that  the  same  be  accepted  and  that  the  Committee  be 
requested  and  impowered  to  carry  their  said  Report  into  execution 

The  Town  took  into  consideration  the  Vote  of  the  Town  passed 
the  12  Ins',  appointing  a  Committee  of  twelve  Persons  to  aid  the 
Assessors  with  their  advice  relative  to  an  equal  levying  of  the 
Taxes,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Breck,  and  the  other  Gentlemen,  chosen 
be  excused  from  that  service  ;  and  that  the  Town  Clerk  be  directed 
to  erase  the  Minutes  of  that  Appointment,  from  the  Minute  Book 

[263.]  The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  one  Con- 
stable, and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

Mr.  John  Kennedy 
was  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  year  ensuing 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant — Viz1.  To  consider  whether  there 
shall  be  a  Provision  of  the  By  Laws  of  the  Town,  and  such  others 
agreed  upon  as  shall  be  thought  Necessary,"  was  read  —  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
William  Tudor  Esqr. 
John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Joseph  Oreenleaf  Esq\ 
Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  for  that  purpose  aforesaid 


Boston   Town   Kecords,  1779.  61 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Report  of  the  Committee,  relative 
to  Horses  going  at  Large,  on  Common,  be  referred  to  the  foregoing 
Committee 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  and  Report,  what  they 
apprehend  would  be  a  suitable  Premium  to  be  allowed  the  Col- 
lectors for  gathering  in  the  Taxes,  Reported,  that  in  their  Opinion 
Nine  pence  on  the  Pound,  on  the  whole  sum,  they  may  Collect, 
will  be  an  allowance  adequate  for  their  Services  —  whereupon, 
after  some  debate,  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  further  con- 
sideration of  this  matter  be  referred  to  May  Meeting 

[264.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Two  thousand  Pounds  out  of 
the  Tax  of  thirty  Thousand  Pounds  already  Voted,  to  defrey  the 
Charges,  of  the  Town  the  Year  ensuing,  be  appropriated,  for  the 
Supply  of  the  Families  of  the  Non  Commissioned  Officers  and 
Soldiers  in  the  Continental  Army 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  directed 
and  impowered  to  borrow  in  Current  Money  a  Sum  not  exceeding 
two  Thousand  Pounds,  to  be  paid  to  Cap'.  John  Simpkins  the 
Commissary  to  supply  the  Families  of  the  Continental  Soldiers  in 
this  Town  for  which  he  is  to  issue  his  Negotiable  Notes  Payable 
to  the  Lenders  on  Interest  in  Current  Money  out  of  the  present 
Tax,  no  part  of  said  sums  to  be  made  use  of,  for  any  other  pur- 
pose —  also 

Voted,  that  Cap*.  John  Simpkins  be  a  Committee,  to  procure  Sub- 
scriptions for  the  loan  of  two  thousand  Pounds  to  be  appropriated 
out  of  the  present  Tax,  for  the  Supplies  of  the  Families  of  the 
Continental  Soldiers,  for  which  the  Treasurer  is  to  issue  his 
Negotiable  Notes,  carrying  Interest  payable  to  the  Lenders  in 
Current  Money  out  of  the  present  Tax 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  Things  which  remain  unfinished  be 
referred  over  to  the  General  Town  Meeting  in  May  next,  then  to 
be  considered  and  acted  upon 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


[265.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  Other  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in 
publick  Town  Meeting  the  5th.  Day  of  May  Anno  Domini  1779 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Dr.  Mather 

The  Precipt  and  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting —  read 

Sundry  Laws         read  — 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  Seven  Persons  to 
Represent  them  in  the  Great  and  General  Court  or  Assembly 
to  be  held  at  the  Town  House  in  Boston  upon  Wednesday  the 
26  Day  of  May  Current  —  The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly 
directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  —  Votes,  for  Seven  Rep- 
resentatives and  then  it  was  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no 
Votes  will  be  received,  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they 
propose  the  Poll  shall  be  closed  at  12  O. Clock 

The  Votes,  being  brought  in  for  Seven  Representatives,  the 
Number  of  the  same  were  found  to  be  four  hundred,  thirty  one  ;  — 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  the  following  Persons 
only  were  chose  —Viz'. 


62  City  Document  No.   80. 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  —     383 
The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esq1'.  —     431 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr.       —     431 
[266.]     resigned     Gustavus  Fellows        —     335 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley    —     241 
William  Tudor  Esqr.  —     372 
A  Motion    made    that    this    Meeting    be  Adjourned    to  three. 
O. Clock  P:  M:   for  the  choice  of    one  Representative  —  and    the 
Question    being    put   in    the  Affermative ;   and  the    Meeting    was 
accordingly  Adjourned 

3.  O. Clock  :  Met  according  to  Adjournment  — 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw,  and  bring  in  their 
Votes,  for  one  Representative,  and  that  the  Poll  be  closed  at 
4.  O.  Clock 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared,  that  the 
Number  of   Votes   were  three    hundr'd  twenty   Eight,    and   that 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

Seven  Representatives  having  been  chosen  as,  Voted,  by  the 
Town  ;  a  motion  was  made  and  after  some  debate  carried,  that 
a  Moderator  be  now  chosen,  that  the  Town  may  proceed  in  a 
legal  way,  to  consider  and  determine  upon  that  Article  in  the 
Warrant  which  relates  to  the  Constitution 

The  Inhabitants  having  withdrawn  and  brought  in  their  Votes, 
for  a  Moderator 

It  Appeared  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

[267.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  a  new  Consti- 
tution and  Form  of  Government  having  been  read  a  Motion  was 
made,  that  this  matter  be  considered  at  the  Adjournment,  and 
that  the  Selectmen,  be  directed  to  send  out  printed  Notifications 
to  the  Inhabitants  of  said  Adjournment  and  the  buissiness  to  be 
transacted  —  and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed 
in  the  Affirmative 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Monday  next.  11. 
O'Clock  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned,  the  Town  having 
first  chosen  General  Hancock,  as  Moderator  to  provide,  when  the 
other  buissiness  of  the  Warrant  is  to  be  transacted,  which,  was 
Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock  of  said  Day 

Monday  the  10th.  Day  of  May,  11  O  :Clock  Forenoon,  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

Cap1.  Gustavus  Fellows  chosen  one  of  the  Representatives,  on 
Wednesday  last  having  sent  in  writing  his  resignation,  which  was 
read  to  the  Town  —  a  Motion  was  made,  that  Mr.  Hancock  should 
leave  the  Chair,  that  the  Selectmen  proceed  to  the  Choice  of  one 
Representative  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Fellows  —  and  the  same  being 
Voted,  another  Motion  was  made  and  carried.  Viz1.  That  the 
Choice  of  Representative  be  referred  to  3  O'Clock  Afternoon 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  63 

It  was  then  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes  will  be 
then  received,  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they  propose 
[268.]  The  Poll  should  be  closed  at  4.  O. Clock 

General  Hancock  having  again  taken  the  Chair,  the  Article  in 
the  Warrant  relative  to  a  new  Constitution  or  form  of  Govern- 
ment was  read  and.  considered  whereupon 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  of  five  Persons  be  appointed  to  consider 
and  Report  to  the  Town  their  Opinion  on  the  Second  Question  pro- 
posed in  the  Resolve  of  the  General  Court,  and  inserted  in  the 
Warrant 

Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barrett  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Votes  on  the  First  Question  in  the  Resolve  having  been 
brought  in  and  counted,  the  Number  was  found  to  be  Three 
hundred  fifty  one,  and  upon  examining  them  it  appeared  that  they 
were  all  Yeas 

The  Town  having  been  unanimous  in  answering  the  first  Ques- 
tion in  the  Affermative  the  Committee  on  the  second  Question, 
were  called  upon  for  their  Report,  and  the  same  being  given  in, 
and  read  —  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  further  Considera- 
tion of  this  Question  be  referred  to  3.  O:  Clock  P.M. 
Adjourned  to  Three  O  O. Clock,  in  the  Afternoon 

[269.]     3.  O. Clock  Afternoon  met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  one  Representative,  and  sorted, 
the  numbers  was  found  to  be  one  hundred  ninety  two,  and  that 

Mr.  Samuel  Austin 
was  chosen  by  a  very  great  majority 

The  choice  of  Representatives  being  over  General  Hancock  took 
the  Chair 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  and  Report  to  the  Town 
their  Opinion  on  the  second  Question  in  the  Resolve  of  the  General 
Court,  respecting  a  Constitution  —  Report  that  the  following  Vote, 
be  passed  if  agreeable  to  the  Town  Viz'. 

That  We  will  impower  our  Representatives  to  Vote  for  the  call- 
ing a  State  Convention,  provided  it  shall  appear  to  them  on  exam- 
ination, that  a  Major  part  of  the  People  present  and  Voting  at 
the  Meeting  called  in  the  manner  and  for  the  purposes  aforesaid 
shall  have  answered  the  first  Question  in  the  Affermative  ;  under 
the  Restrictions  following  —  Viz'.  —  That  the  Convention  be  so 
formed  as  to  contain  an  equal  Representation  of  the  Several  parts 
of  the  State,  and  that  our  Representatives  be  impowered  to  agree 
to  a  Constitution  on  no  other  Terms 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed 
in  the  Affermative 

[270.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  which  respects  a  new 
Constitution  or  form  of  Government  having  been  acted  upon  ;  the 


64  City  Document  No.   80. 

Town  proceed  to  the  Considerations  of  the  other  matters  mintained 
in  the  Warrant 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  Moderator 
The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz*.  To  consider  what  method 
shall  be  takep  for  the  immediate  raising  a  sufficient  Sum  of  Money 
for  the  Commissary  appointed  to  supply  the  Families  of  the  non 
Commissioned  Officers  and  Soldiers,  who  have  engaged  in  the 
Continental  Army,  in  conformity  to  a  Resolve  of  the  General 
Court  —  was  read  and  considered,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Four  Thousand  in  addition  to  the  two 
thousand  Pounds,  already  granted,  out  of  the  Tax  of  thirty  thou- 
sand Pounds  already  Voted,  to  defray  the  Charges  of  the  Town 
the  ensuing  year  be  appropriated  for  the  Supply  of  the  Families  of 
the  non  Commissioned  Officers  and  Soldiers  in  the  Continental 
Army,  also 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  directed 
and  impowered  to  borrow  in  Current  Money  a  Sum  not  exceeding 
four  Thousand  Pounds  in  Addition  to  the  two  thousand  already 
granted,  to  be  paid  to  Cap*.  John  Simpkins  appointed  Commissary 
to  Supply  the  Families  of  the  Continental  Soldiers  in  this  Town, 
for  which  he  is  to  issue  his  negotiable  Notes  payable — to  the 
lenders  on  Interest  in  Current  Money  out  of  the  present  Tax 
[271.]  Or  the  fund  provided  by  the  General  Court  for  the  pur- 
pose aforesaid,  no  part  of  said  Sum  to  be  made  use  of  for  any 
other  occasion  —  also 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Brick 

Mr.  Henderson  Inches 

Mr.  William  Powell 

Mr.  Edward  Payne 

Mr.  Stephen  Higginson 

Mr.  William  Foster 

Mr.  Thomas  Hitchburne 
be  a  Committee  to  procure  Subscriptions  for  the  two  thousand  and 
four  thousand  Pounds  to  be  appropriated  out  of  the  present  Tax, 
for  the  supply  of  the  Families  of  the  Continental  Soldiers  for  which 
the  Treasurer  is  to  issue  his  Negotiable  Notes,  carrying  Interest, 
payable  to  the  Lenders  in  Current  Money  out  of  the  present  Tax, 
or  the  fund  provided  by  the  General  Court  for  the  purpose  afore- 
said 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  To  consider,  whether  In- 
structions shall  be  given  to  the  Representatives  that  may  be  chosen 
—  was  read  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 

Nathaniel  Appleton 

William  Cooper 

Ellis  Gray  Esq1". 

Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  draught  Instructions  for  the  Gentlemen  chosen 
to  Represent  this  Town  in  the  next  General  Court  and  that  they 
Report  the  same  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

[272.]     On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Ad- 


Boston   Town   Eecoeds,   1779.  65 

journed  to  Monday  next  being  the  Seventeenth  Da}7  of  May  Inst 
10.  OClock  in  the  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  the  17  Day  of  May  10.  OClock  Forenoon,  met  according 
to  Adjournment 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  Moderator  of  this  Meeting, 
having  acquainted  the  Town  that  he  could  not  attend  by  reason  of 
indisposition  of  Body  ;  a  Motion  was  made  and  carried  that  a 
Moderator  Pro.  Tern0,  be  now  chosen  by  a  Hand  Vote  — 

Colo.  Thomas  Dawes 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0,  and  took  his  Seat  Accordingly 

A  Motion  was  made,  that  the  Report  of  the  Committee  to  Audit 
the  Accompts  of  Mr.  Treasurer  Jeffries,  be  now  read  and  acted 
upon  ;  but  it  being  objected  to  on  account  of  so  few  of  the  Inhab- 
itants being  present,  the  Motion  was  passed  over 

A  Motion  was  made,  that  this  Meeting  for  the  foregoing  reason, 
be  Adjourned  to  Tuesday  the  18  Day  of  May,  Three  O. Clock  in 
the  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

[273.]  Tuesday  May  18th.  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon,  met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  to  prepare  a  Draught  of  Instructions  were 
called  upon  to  make  report  —  whereupon  a  Motion  was  made  that 
the  Committee  may  be  filled  up 

Voted  that  David  Jeffries  Esqr.  be  one  of  the  Committee  to 
prepare  a  Draught  of  Instructions  for  the  Representatives  of  this 
Town  in  General  Assembly 

The, Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1. — To  consider  what  regula- 
tions are  necessary  to  be  made  respecting  Fanueil  Hall  Market, 
was  read,  and  after  debate  had  thereon 

Voted,  that  the  Gentlemen  Selectmen  be  directed  to  give  Orders 
that  the  Doors  of  Fanueil  Hall  Market,  be  hung  as  usual  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  see  that  the  terms  upon 
which  the  Butchers  hold  and  improve  the  Stalls  in  Fanueil  Hall 
Market,  are  fully  complied  with 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Draught  Instructions  for  the 
Gentlemen  chosen  to  Represent  this  Town  in  General  Assembly 
the  ensuing  Year  —  Reported,  a  Draught  which  having  been 
amended  is  as  follows  —  Viz'. 

[274.]     To  the  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr. 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
William  Tudor  Esqr. 
Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 
Samuel  Austin  Esqr. 
Gentlemen 

Notwithstanding  the  Evidence  of  the  Town  have  given  of  their 
confidence  in  your  iutegritys  and  abilities  by  choosing  you  to  rep- 
resent them  in  the  General  Assembly,  at  this  critical  and  important 


66  City  Document  No.   80. 

conjuncture,  they  mean  however  to  exercise  a  right  of  giving  you 
such  Instructions  from  time  to  time  as  they  shall  Judge  the  exi- 
gence of  affairs  may  require 

We  trust  that  the  Independance  of  this  and  our  Sister  States  of 
America  is  under  Providence  secure  from  the  force  and  insidious 
designs  of  our  Enemies,  yet  we  are  still  engaged  in  a  War  with 
great  Britain,  whose  malice  hightned  Ivy  shagrin  will  we  doubt  not 
prompt  them  to  contrive  and  make  use  of  every  Method  to  dis- 
tress us,  we  Instruct  you  to  use  your  early  efforts  to  procure  and 
keep  in  the  field,  our  full  proportion  of  the  Continental  Arm}7, 
that  a  speedy  and  honourable  end  may  be  put  to  this  bloody  and 
distructive  tho.  Just  and  necessary  War,  and  that  you  do  not 
suffer  yourselves  to  be  diverted  from  this  object  on  any  Account 
whatsoever 

[275.]  Being  also  sensible  that  mamr  secret  Enemies  still 
lurking  among  us,  and  are  plotting  our  ruin,  we  expect  you  will 
with  the  uttermost  vigilance  guard  us  against  their  base  and 
treachourous  designs,  and  in  order  to  effect  this  that  you  use  all 
your  influence  in  the  General  Assembly,  that  the  Resolves  of  Con- 
gress, and  the  Law  of  this  State  provided  for  our  securiety  be 
carried  into  full  execution,  and  such  other  Laws,  enacted  as  may 
appear  necessary  to  ensure  this  end 

At  a  legal  Town  Meeting  Convened  for  the  Purpose  of  con- 
sidering and  determining  upon  the  Questions  proposed  in  a  Resolve 
of  the  late  General  Assembly,  we  have  by  a  Vote  impowered  you 
to  agree  to  the  calling  a  State  Convention  for  the  sole  purpose  of 
framing  a  new  Constitution  or  form  of  Government ;  upon  this 
express  condition  that  the  Convention  so  called  be  upon  some 
equal  plan,  and  althd.  in  our  opinion,  as  many  Persons  will  have  a 
Voice  in  this  Matter  as  would  were  the  War  at  an  end,  we  cannot 
however  but  express  our  wishes,  that  if  it  should  be  found  practi- 
cable, our  Bretheren  in  the  Army  may  also  have  a  Aroice  in  approv- 
ing or  disapproving  any  Constitution  that  may  be  formed  before 
the  same  be  finally  established 

With  respect  to  the  best  method  of  calling  this  Convention,  it  is 
our  sentement  that  equality  of  Representation  is  an  indispensaible 
requiset,  and  that  in  order  to  avoid  so  numerious  an  Assembly  as 
will  take  place  if  each  [276.]  Town  and  District  send  Delagates 
in  proportion  to  their  numbers  ;  we  would  therefore  recomend  that 
the  General  Assembly  fix  upon  a  Compotant  number,  and  call 
upon  the  Several  Counties  to  send  Delagates  to  form  this  Conven- 
tion in  proportion  to  their  respective  numbers,  and  that  the  several 
pnits  of  the  Counties  may  be  equally  and  fairly  represented,  that 
the  Countys  be  divided  for  this  purpose  into  Districts  out  of  each 
of  which  the  Delagates  shall  be  chose  in  proportion  to  the  num- 
bers in  each  District 

And  you  are  to  move  for  an  Act  of  the  General  Assembly,  to 
vacate  the  Seat  of  such  Members  of  either  House  of  Assembly,  as 
may  be  Elected  Members  of  the  Convention  for  forming  a  Consti- 
tution 

We  would  further  recommend  that  such  Grants  and  allowances 
be  made  the  Ollicers   and   Servants   of   this  State  as  may  be  ade- 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  67 

quate  to  their  respective  servicies,  taking  due  care  that  no  partial 
iniquality  should  take  place  with  respect  to  such  Grants 

We  readily  Submitt  all  other  matters  of  publick  moment  which 
may  come  before  you.  and  require  your  Consideration,  to  your  own 
fairness  and  discretion,  and  trust  that  your  exertions  will  be 
such  as  shall  give  the  approbation  of  your  Fellow  Citizens 

John  Lowell, 

p  Order 

[277.]  The  foregoing  Draught  as  amended  having  been  read 
and  considered,  the  Question  was  put — Whether  the  same  shall 
be  axcepted  as  Instructions  for  our  Representatives  —  passed  in 
the  Affermative 

Adjourned  to  Thursday  next  3.  O. Clock.  P:  M 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  18th 
Day  of  May.  3.  O. Clock  P:  M. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting — read 

The  Town  having  Voted,  to  choose  a  Moderator,  to  manage  the 
buisiness  of  this  Meeting  by  a  Hand  Vote 

Samuel  Austin  Esq1',  was  chosen  but  declined  serving  after 
which  Mr.  Thomas  Walley  was  chosen,  but  also  declining,  a  num- 
ber of  other  Gentlemen  were  chosen,  and  declined  serving,  after 
which 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr.  was  chosen  and  took  his  Seat  as  Moder- 
ator 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz1.  To  consider  of  some  Method 
to  insure  the  Collectors  to  receive  the  Moneys  out  of  Circulation 
in  discharge  of  the  State  Tax  lately  Assessed,  as  the  Rate  Bills 
are  not  [278.]  Like  to  be  delivered  to  the  Inhabitants  before  the 
expiration  of  the  time  limitted  by  Law  for  the  receiving  said 
Moneys  by  the  State  Treasurer  —  was  read  and  duly  considered 
—  Whereupon  the  following  Vote  passed  —  Viz*. 

Whereas  it  appears  to  this  Town,  that  their  is  no  probability  of 
the  Rate  Bill  being  deliver'd  to  the  Inhabitants,  before  the  time 
b}'  Law  expires  for  receiving  the  two  Emissions  of  Continental 
Money  out  of  Circulation  into  the  State  Treasury  ;  and  whereas 
many  of  the  Inhabitants  have  reserved  Moneys  of  said  Emissions 
for  the  payment  of  their  Taxes,  it  is  therefore 

Voted,  that  the  several  Collectors  in  this  Town  be  and. they 
hereby  are  directed  and  impowered  immediately  after  given  Bonds 
to  the  approbation  of  the  Selectmen  to  proceed  and  apply  to  the 
Inhabitants  who  are  Taxable  in  their  respective  Wards,  and  re- 
ceive from  them  such  Sums  of  Money  as  they  may  choose  to 
pay,  giving  them  Receits  for  the  same  to  be  deducted  from  their 
future  Taxes  ;  and  the  said  Collectors  are  further  directed  to  pay 
into  the  State  Treasurey  all  the  Moneys  they  may  so  receive  be- 
fore the  28  Day  of  May  Ins1,  out  on  account  of  the  late  State 
Tax  — 

That  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz'.  To  consider  what  disposi- 
tion shall  be  made  of  the  Money  arising  from  the  Sale  of  damaged 


68  City  Document  No.   80. 

Fire  Arms  [279.]  Now  in  the  Hands  of  the  Committee  for  pur- 
chasing Arms  for  the  Militia  of  this  Town  " —  was  read  —  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  this  Money  be  paid  by  said  Committee  into  the 
Treasury ;  and  that  David  Jeffries  Esqr.  the  Town  Treasurer  be 
directed  to  pay  the  same  to  Cap*.  John  Simpkins  Commissary  to 
enable  him  to  provide  for  Soldiers  Families  agreeable  to  the  re- 
quirement of  the  General  Assembly  by  a  late  Resolve 

Voted,  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby. are  given  to 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr.  for  his  good  servicies  as  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


Thursday  3.  O.  Clock  P.M  Met  according  to  Adjournment  of 
May  Meeting 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  the  Collectors  of 
Taxes  Premium,  or  allowance  of  Collecting  the  Taxes,  was  again 
read  and  taken  up  after  some  debate,  a  Motion  was  made  that 
said  Report  be  recommitted  —  and  the  Question  being  put  passed 
in  the  Affermative  —  also 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles  be  added  to  said  Committee  in 
the  Room  of  Mr.  Ellis  Gray  who  is  absent 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  of  a  Meet  allowance  to 
the  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  their  trouble  in  Collecting  —  Reported 
the  following  Vote,  which  was  accepted  by  the  Town  — Viz1. 

[280.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  Shilling  on  the  Pound, 
be  and  hereby  is  allowed  to  the  Persons  chose  Collectors  of  Taxes 
the  Year  ensuing,  for  all  which  Sums  they  shall  Collect ;  provided 
they  pay  the  same  into  the  severell  Treasuries  within  four  Months, 
and  nine  pence  on  the  Pound  on  all  such  other  Sums  as  they  shall 
have  so  paid  into  the  Treasurer  on  or  before  the  second  Monday 
in  March  1780  —  This  Premium  as  above  expressd,  appears  to  be 
Just  and  equitable  and  an  ample  allowance  to  the  Collectors  to 
encourage  them  to  discharge  their  Duty  with  dilligence  and  Fidelity 
provided  also  that  each  of  said  Collectors  give  Bond  with  sufficient 
Sureties  to  the  Satisfaction  of  the  Selectmen  for  the  faithfull  dis- 
charge of  their  Duty  in  said  Office,  and  complying  with  this  Vote 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  the  Accounts  of  David 
Jeffries  Esqr.  Town  Treasurer  have  attended  that  service  and  find 
the  same  right  Cast  and  well  vouched,  in  which  he  chargeth  him- 
self with  the  Sundry  Rents  and  other  Incomes  of  the  Town, 
Amounting  to  Twenty  five  thousand  five  hundred  and  Seventy 
Pounds,  eight  Shillings  and  Six  pence  half  penny 

And  the  Said  Treasurer  discharges  himself  by  Abatements  made 
the  Collectors  amounting  to  Two  Thousand  eight  hundred  and 
Forty  four  Pounds  one  Shilling  and  ten  Pence  —  by  Draughts 
made  by  the  Selectmen  amounting  to  eleven  thousand  nine 
hundred  and  seven  Pounds  sixteen  shillings  and  ten  Pence,  of 
which  he  has  paid  eight  thousand  one  hundred  and  Eighty  Seven 
pounds  thirteen  Shillings  and  ten  Pence — [281.]  By  Draughts 
made  by  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  amounting  to  nine  Thousand 
Six  hundred  and  Seventy  Seven  Pounds  four  Shillings  and  Six 


Boston  Town  Records,  1779.  69 

pence  of  which  he  has  paid  Seven  thousand  nine  hundred  and 
thirty  five  Pounds  nineteen  Shillings  and  eleven  Pence  —  Also  by 
sundry  Sums  paid  for  Interest  amounting  to  Four  thousand  and 
twenty  eight  Pounds,  Seventeen  Shillings  and  Six  Pence  —  The 
Debit  of  Town  Treasury  in  the  Treasurers  Books  Amounts  to 
thirty  Thousand  four  hundred  and  fifty  one  Pounds  five  Shillings 
and  two  Pence  half  Penny 

The  Committee  have  inspected  said  Draught  in  every  particular 
manner,  and  every  other  branch  of  Publick  charge,  amounting  in 
the  whole  as  above  to  thirty  Thousand  four  hundred  and  fifty  one 
Pounds  five  Shillings  and  two  Pence  half  Penny  as  by  Account  of 
Town  Treasury  in  the  Treasurers  Books,  ballance  whereof  being 
four  thousand  eight  hundred  and  eighty  Pounds  sixteen  Shillings 
and  eight  Pence  is  carred  to  the  Debit  of  new  Account 

Which  Report  being  read  —  Voted,  that  the  same  be  and  hereby 
is  accepted 

A  Letter  of  the  Barrack  Master  General  to  the  Selectmen  of  the 
Town,  praying  leave  to  erect  some  Barracks,  on  such  part  of  the 
Towns  Land,  as  shall  be  thought  most  suitable  and  Convenient, 
was  laid  before  the  Town,  when  it  appeared  to  be  the  sense  of 
the  Town  that  the  Selectmen  confir  with  General  Heath,  and  pur- 
pose a  Slip  of  Ground  on  Fort  Hill  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

[283.]    The  Town  took  up  the  consideration  of  a  proper  allow- 
ance to   the    Several    Schoolmasters    whereupon    a    Motion   was 
made  and  carried  that  a  Committee  be  now  chosen  to  hear  the 
Several  Schoolmasters,  and  Ushers,  and  the  Town  Treasurer,  and  to 
Report,  what  Sum  they  may  Judge  to  be  adequate  to  their  servicies 
for  the  present  Year,  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting,  if  theire 
should  be  one ;  or  at  the  next  Town  Meeting 
Voted,  that  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 
on  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  all  matters,  and  Things  which  remain  unfinished  be 
referred  over  to  the  next  Town  Meeting  that  may  be  called  and 
acted  upon  — 

Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  given  to  Thomas  Daws 
Esqr.the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  for  dispatching  the  buissi- 
ness  thereof 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


[283.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  Other  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in 
publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Fryday  the 
9th.  Day  of  July  Anno  Domini  1779  10.  O. Clock  —  Forenoon 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator ;  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  Appeared  that 


70  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator  of  the 
Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'. 

To  impower  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  and 
Safety  and  such  other  Persons  as  the  Town  may  think  proper  to 
be  Joined  with  them,  to  meet  the  Convention  at  Concord  on  the 
14  Instant  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  into  effect,  the  Measures 
Congress  have  recommended  in  their  late  Address  "  —  was  read  ; 
and  after  large  debate  had  thereon  the  Question  was  put  — Viz1. 
—  Whether  the  Town  will  now  proceed  to  the  choice  of  a  Com- 
mittee to  meet  in  Convention  at  Concord  on  the  14th.  of  July 
Currant,  with  such  Committies  as  may  be  sent  by  other  Towns, 
for  the  purpose  of  carrying  into  effect  such  Measures,  as  have  been 
recommended  by  Congress  in  their  late  Address  ;  and  the  Resolu- 
tions and  proceedings  of  the  People  of  this  Town  in  consequence 
of  said  Address  at  their  Meeting  on  the  17th.  of  June  last  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

[284.]  Voted,  that  this  Committee  consist  of  Seven  Per- 
sons 

Voted  that  this  Committee  be  chosen  by  Ballot 

The  Inhabitants  having  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Committee, 
and  the  same  being  sorted,  it  appeared  that 
Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles 
Cap'.  Amasa  Davis 
M1".  Thomas  Walley 
Ellis  Gray  Esq1. 
Mr.  Stephen  Higginson 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
were  chose  by  a  great  Majority 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "What  —  Measures  are 
proper  to  be  taken  by  the  Town  for  the  Security  of  the  Same 
when  so  many  Prisoners  of  War  are  going  at  large  — was  read  — 
whereupon 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Joseph  Barrel,  &  General  Hancock  be  a  Com- 
mittee to  take  this  Matter  into  Consideration,  and  Report  what 
they  may  Judge  most  expedient  to  be  done  thereon 

Adjourned  to  3  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  O. Clock  P:  M:    Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  Measures  are  most 
expedient  relative  to  Prisoners  going  at  large  in  this  Town  —  Re- 
ported verbally  —  And  the  Town  having  considered  of  the  same 
came  into  the  following  Votes  —  Viz1. 

[285.]  Voted,  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection 
and  Safety  be  requested,  instantly  to  apprehend  and  secure  every 
Prisoner  who  has  not  the  benefit  of  a  Parole  in  this  Town  ;  and  to 
make  early  and  suitable  representation  to  the  lion1''1',  the  Council 
of  this  State  ;  representing  the  inexpediency  and  danger  of  Pris- 
oners being  at  large  in  this  Metropolis  at  any  time,  during  the 
continuance  of  this  War,  but  more  particular  at  the  present 

Voted,   that  every  Inhabitant  of    this  Town  be  and  hereby  is 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  71 

earnestly  called  upon  to  Report  to  the  Committee  of  Correspond- 
ence Inspection  and  Safety,  the  Names  of  any  Persons  whose 
Characters  are  Suspicious  ;  that  a  Matter  of  so  much  consequence 
to  the  Safety  of  this  Town,  may  be  properly  and  effectually 
attended  to 

Mr.  Ruggles  chosen  a  Member  of  the  Committee  of  Convention 
having  desired  to  be  excused  by  the  Town  from  serving  on  that 
Committee  —  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  Town  will 
excuse  him  —  passed  in  the  Negative 

The  Committee  chosen  to  hear  the  Several  Schoolmasters,  and 
Ushers,  as  also  the  Town  Treasurer  and  Report  at  this  Meeting 
what  Sums  they  Judge  to  be  adequate  to  their  services  for  the 
present  Year ;  having  heard  the  said  Schoolmasters,  Ushers  and 
Treasurer  &  considered  what  Sums  may  be  adequate  to  their 
Servicies —  Report  that  by  the  high  price  of  Provisions  and  all  the 
necessary  Articles  of  Life,  the  Schoolmasters,  Ushers  and  the 
Town  Treasurer,  for  Six  mouths  only,  to  commence  in  March  last 
receive  the  Sums  following  —  Viz*. 

[386.]  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt £1000 

Mr.  William  Bentley 650 

Mr.  Samuel  Holbrook 640 

Including  House  Rent  M1'.  Johu  Tileston 700 

Including  d°.     -  Mr.  James  Carter    ------         600 

Mr.  Holbrook  the  Usher  -     -     -     -         300 

And  that  the  Town  Treasurer  receive  for  six  Months  \  -,nft 

to  commence  in  March  last j 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  considered,  and  amended, 
the  Question  was  put — Viz'.  — whether  the  same  shall  be  ac- 
cepted —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  aforenamed  Committee  on  Grants, 
be  desired  to  make  enquiry  into  the  past  Servicies  of  the  Town 
Treasurer,  and  make  Report  at  the  Adjournment  what  Sum  they 
shall  Judge  to  be  adequate  thereto 

The  following  Persons  were    chose  Clerks  of   the  Market    for 
the  ensuing  Year  in  the  Room  of  Cap1.  Gowen  Brown,  William 
Prentice,  William  Knox  and  Daniel  Sears  who  are  out  of  Town 
Messrs.  Benjamin  Austin  Jur. 
William  Dall  Junr. 
William  Denuison 
John  Joy 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  publish 
an  Extract  from  the  Law  relative  to  Strangers  ;  and  that  they 
use  their  utmost  endeavors,  that  an  Act  of  such  consequence  to 
this  Town,  be  most  strictly  observed 

[287.]  Voted,  that  the  foregoing  Vote  calling  upon  the 
Inhabitants  to  give  in  the  Names  of  Persons  suspected  to  be 
inimical  to  the  Cause  of  America  to  the  Committee  of  Corre- 
spondence Inspection  and  Safety  be  also  published  in  the  News 
Papers 

Adjourned  to  Monday  the  26th.  Day  of  July  Instant  10: 
O:  Clock  before  Noon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  adjourned 


72  City  Document  No.  80. 

Monday  10.  0:  Clock  Forenoon  met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what  is  proper 
to  be  done  in  order  to  have  the  Ways  at  Winnisimit  Ferry  put  in 
proper  repair"  — was  read  and  considered  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  and  hereby  are  directed  and 
impowered  to  treat  with,  and  Lease  to  any  Person  or  Persons, 
who  may  appear  to  hire  the  same ;  Winnisimit  Ferrey,  for  a  term 
not  exceeding  fifteen  years,  upon  such  Terms  and  Conditions  as 
to  the  Selectmen  shall  appear  for  the  Interest  of  the  Town  — 
or  to  repair  the  said  Ferry  Ways  in  such  manner  as  they  may 
Judge  most  advantageious,  and  then  to  let  the  same  upon  such 
conditions,  as  they  may  Judge  best,  not  exceeding  the  term  of 
time  before  mentioned 

A  Motion  was  made  by  General  Hancock  relative  to  Beacon 
Hill,  but  not  Acted  upon  as  the  same  was  not  inserted  in  the 
Warrant  for  calling  a  Meeting,  and  the  Town  were  of  opinion, 
that  this  matter  would  come  with  propriety  before  the  Selectmen 

[288.]  The  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  and 
Safety  Reported  to  the  Town  verbally,  their  doings  in  Compliance 
with  iate  Vote  respecting  Prissioners  going  at  Large  and  also  laid 
before  the  Town  the  representation  they  had  Made  to  the  Honble. 
the  Council  of  this  State  relative  to  this  Matter  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given  to 
the  Committee  of  Correspondence  &c  for  their  special  Vigilance 
on  so  important  an  occasion 

The  Committee  appointed  to  attend  the  Convention  at  Concord, 
were  desired  to  Report  their  doings  in  Convention,  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  shall  be  Adjourned,  it  be  to 
Wednesday  next  9.  O. Clock  A:  M:  for  the  special  purposes  of  re- 
ceiving the  Report  of  said  Committee,  and  that  the  Selectmen  be 
directed  to  Notify  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Buissiness  of  said  Ad- 
journment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz4.  "  To  consider  what  allow- 
ance shall  be  made  the  Assessors,  for  their  past  servicies,"  was 
read  and  considered  whereupon  the  Question  was  put.  Viz*. 
whether  the  Selectmen  shall  be  Authorised  to  allowe  to  each  of  the 
Assessors  for  their  past  Servicies,  twelve  Dollars  p  day  —  passed 
in  the  Affermative  unanimously 

Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  the  28  Ins1.  9.  0. Clock 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duley  qualified  &  Legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  ye.  26th. 
Day  of  July  Anno  Dom.  1779. 

[289.]     Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting —  read 
The    Inhabitants  were  directed   to  bring  in  their  Votes   for  a 
Moderator  of  this  Meeting  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in 
and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

The  Honblc.  John  Haneock  Esqr. 
was  chosen 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  73 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant — Viz4.  — "To  consider  and  grant 
such  further  Sums  of  Money,  and  in  such  manner  as  may  be 
Judged  needful!  for  defreying  the  necessary  Charges  of  the  Town 
the  present  Year"  —  was  read,  and  after  due  consideration 

Voted,  that  the  further  Sum  of  Thirty  thousand  in  addition  to 
the  £30,000.  granted  the  twelfth  of  March  last,  be  raised  by  a  Tax 
upon  Polls,  and  Estates  within  this  Town  for  the  Relief  of  the 
Poor,  and  defreying  other  necesssary  Charges  arising  within  this 
Town  the  ensuing  Tear 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &c  bv  Adjournment,  from  the 
9th.  and  26th.  Instant,  9.  O. Clock  A:  M:  " 

The  Constables  made  Return  on  the  Warrant  for  notefying  the 
Inhabitants  of  this  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Represent  this  Town  in  the  Conven- 
tion begun  and  held,  [290.]  at  Concord  on  the  14th.  clay  of  July 
Instant  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  into  effect  the  Measures  rec- 
ommended by  Congress  to  the  Inhabitants  of  the  United  States  in 
their  late  wise  seasonable  and  animating  Address  —  Reported  as 
follows,  See  particulars  as  entered  at  Large  in  the  fair  Quarto 
Book  of  Town  Meeting  from  Page  95  to  114 

The  Report  having  been  read,  after  due  consideration  of  the  Same 
the  Question  was  put  —  Viz1.  —  Whether  the  Town  will  receive  and 
adopt  the  Resolutions  and  proceedings,  aforesaid,  and  so  far  as  is 
in  their  Power  will  take  every  effectual  Measure  to  carrey  them 
into  execution  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative  —  unanimously  —  also 
Voted,  that 

Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
Edward  Green 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray — Esqr. 
Mr.  Joseph  Russell 
Mr.  Henry  Prentice 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  consider  and  Report 
the  most  speedy  and  effectual  Measures  for  carrying  the  Proceed- 
ings of  Convention  into  effect  —  further 
Voted, 

Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
Cap*.  Isaac  Sears 
Mr.  Higgerson 
Mr.  William  Foster 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
[291.]  Cap1.  John  Ballard 

Col°.  Andrew  Symms 
Cap'.  Gibbins  Sharp 
Cap'.  Robert  Davis 
Mr.  John  Fenno 
Mr.  Nathaniel  Baker 


74  City  Document  No.   80. 

be  and  hereby  are  appointed  and  impowered  to  affix  prides  on  the 
Several  Articles  mentioned  in  the  4th.  &  5th.  Resolutions  of  the 
Convention 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to 
Wednesday  next  9.  O. Clock  in  the  Forenoon  to  meet  at  this  place 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Wednesday  the  4th.  Day  of  August  9.  O:  Clock.  Forenoon,  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  to  take  into  consideration  the  most  effectual  and 
speedy  means  to  carry  the  proceedings, and  Resolutions  of  the  Con- 
vention at  Concord  into  effect  —  Reported  in  part  as  their  Opin- 
ion," that  whereas  it  is  necessary  that  further  Reduction  of  Prices, 
should  take  place,  and  it  cannot  be  reasonably  expected,  unless 
the  Method  of  Loving  —  [sic  lowering]  recommended  by  the  Con- 
vention of  Concord,  be  fully  adopted,  That  a  Committee  be  ap- 
pointed to  apply  to  the  Inhabitants,  of  this  Town  and  earnestly, 
request  them,  voluntarley  to  Subscribe  as  much  Money  as  they  can 
possibly  spare  or  Loan  to  Government,  that  the  Necessity  of  fur- 
ther Emissions  may  be  prevented 

[292.]  The  foregoing  Report  being  read  and  considered  the 
Question  was  put  —  Viz'. — Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted 
— i  passed  in  the  Aff ermative  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  be  directed,  to  Report  again  at  the 
Adjournment  and  that  Samuel  Barret  Esqr.  be  added  to  the  Com- 
mittee 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appoint'd  to  procure  Subscrip- 
tions for  a  Loan  of  Money  to  Congress,  agreeable  to  the  preceding 
Vote  ;  and  that  the  Substance  of  said  Vote,  be  taken  as  the  pre- 
amble to  the  Subscription  Paper 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  appointed  at  a  Body  Meeting,  for 
the  purpose  of  procuring  Subscriptions  to  fortify  the  Harbour  &c 
exclusive  of  the  Cap1,  of  each  Ward — Viz*. 

Messrs.  John  R.  Sigorney  \  Ward 

William  Clough  [  N°.  1 

Cap1.  John  Lambert  )  9 

Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr.  j 
Nathaniel  Fellows  \  « 

Samuel  Eliot  j 

John  Cogswell  )  A 

Daniel  Parker  [ 

Thomas  Hitchburne 
John  Pulling 
Cap1.  Samuel  Barret 
John  Barret  Jur. 
Cap1.  Job  Prince  Senr. 
Mr.  William  Davis 
Mr.  Samuel  Kliot 
Cap'.  Jones 

[293.]  Cap'.  David  Spear  \  Ward 

Mr.  William  Suttcn  j  N°.  9 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  75 

Major  John  Read  \  .  ~ 

Col0.  Thomas  Dawes  f 

Col0.  Thomas  Crafts  \  1 

Henry  Hill  Esqr.  j  Xi 

Cap1.  Amasa  Davis  }  1 9 

Mr.  William  Gooch  j  lJl 

be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  procure  Subscriptions 
for  a  Loan  to  Congress  agreeable  to  the  preceeding  Report  and 
Vote  thereon 

The  Resolutions  of  the  Town  of  Milton  relative  to  the  Proceed- 
ings of  the  Convention  at  Concord,  were  laid  before  the  Town, 
and  being  read,  were  much  approved  of  by  the  Inhabitants 

The  Committee  appointed  to  affix  the  prises  of  the  .several  Arti- 
cles mentioned  in  the  fourth  and  Fifth  Resolutions  of  the  Conven- 
tion of  Concord,  being  called  upon  to  make  Report  informed  the 
Town  ;  that  they  were  not  as  yet  able  to  do  it,  but  that  they  had 
so  attended  to  the  Buissiness  Assigned  them,  and  had  made  such 
enquires,  and  taken  such  previous  Measures  for  information,  as 
lead  them  to  apprehend,  they  might  be  ready  to  Report  by  Tues- 
day next 

It  being  represented  in  this  Meeting,  that  two  Prisoners,  not 
upon  Parole  had  taken  their  Residence  at  a  House  in  ye.  South 
Part  of  the  Town 

Voted,   that  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  and 
Safety  be  acquainted  therewith,  and  [294.]  Desired  to  take  such 
Measures  as  they  may  Judge  expedient  for  the    Security  of    the 
Town 
,  On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being 
the  9th.  Instant.  3.  O:  Clock  Afternoon — also 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  cause  written  Notifica- 
tions of  the  Adjournment  and  the  buissiness  to  be  then  transacted, 
to  be  sent  to  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the  Town 

And  the  Meeting  was  then  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  the  9th.  of  August  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon  —  met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting, 
informing  the  Town  that  he  was  going  on  a  Journey  and  desires  a 
Moderator  might  be  chosen  in  his  room 

Voted,  that  a  Moderator  Pro  Tempory  be  now  chosen  by  a 
Hand  Vote 

John  Scollay  Esqr.  was  then  chosen,  but  not  being  found,  the 
Town  to  prevent  loss  of  time,  proceeded  to  another  chose,  when 

John  Rowe  Esqr.  was  chosen  in  the  room  of  John  Scollay  Esqr. 
Moderator  Pro.  Tern0. 

[295.]  The  Committee  chosen  by  the  Town  to  affix  pricieson 
European  Goods  &c  —  Reported  verbally  — 

That  they  had  continued  their  Attention  to  the  buissiness 
assigned  them,  but  should  not  be  able  to  Report  fully  before  — 
"Wednesday  next 


76  Crrr  Document  No.   80. 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  to  consider  and  devise 
the  most  effectual  Measures  to  carry  the  Resolutions  of  the  late 
Convention  at  Concord  into  effect  —  Reported  —  which  Report 
being  read,  after  some  debate  thereon,  on  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  the  forementioned  Report  be  recommitted,  and  the 
said  Committee  are  desired  to  Report  again  at  the  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made  —  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  chosen 
to  make  enquirey  and  consider  and  Report  to  the  Town  at  the 
Adjournment  of  this  Meeting,  what  they  shall  Judge  may  be  best 
or  further  necessary  for  the  Town  to  do,  for  their  security  in  case 
of  an  Invasion  from  the  Enemy 

Voted,  that  Samuel  Barret  Esq*. ' 
Col0.  Thomas  Dawes 
Col0.  Jabez  Hatch 
Col0.  Thomas  Crafts 
Majr.  Thomas  Melvin  [Melville  ?] 
Dr.  Charles  Jarvis 
Cap*.  Amasa  Davis 
be  a  Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion,  made,  Voted  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to 
Thursday  next  12  Ins' . —  12.  O. Clock  at  noon 

[296.]     And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Thursday  August  12th. —  meet  according  to  Adjournment 
The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  to  affix  the   pricies  of 
European  Goods  &c  —  Reported  and  it  was  Voted,  that  the  same 
should  be  taken  up  and  considered,  Paragraph  by  Paragraph  — 

After  some  debate  on  said  Report  a  Motion  was  made  and  car- 
ried that  the  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

3.  O. Clock,  Afternoon,  meet  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  for  affixing  prices  of  European 
Goods,  &c  was  again  read,  and  after  some  debate  had  thereon  — 
a  Motion  was  made  that  the  further  consideration  of  the  said  Re- 
port be  referred  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting,  which  it  was 
proposed  should  be  next  Monday  10.  0. Clock  in  the  Forenoon  — 
And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Afferma- 
tive 

The  Petition  of  a  number  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town, 
Butchers,  Tanners,  Leather  Dressers,  Tallow  Chandlers  and  Soap 
Boilers,  praying  that  the  Town  would  enter  upon  some  speedy 
Measures  for  the  introduction  of  live  Stock,  so  that  the  Butch- 
ering business  may  be  again  carried  on  in  this  Town  as  also 
the  other  branches  of  Manufacturers  [297.]  Which  have  been 
driven  from  us  to  the  Neighbouring  Towns,  to  their  no  small 
benefit,  and  the  great  loss  and  damage  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this 
Town,  and  offering  their  service,  in  going  into  the  Country  for 
Cattle  & — was  read,  and  after  some  debate  and  consideration 

Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of  this  Petition  be  refferred 
to  a  Committee,  who  are  desired  to  make  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  77 

Voted,  that  Thomas  Crafts  Esqr. 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Mr.  William  Davis 
Cap*.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
Mr.  Shubael  Hews 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose 

The  confession  of  one  Everet  of  Roxbuiy  who  had  violated  the 
late  Regulations  of  the  Convention,  in  this  Town,  by  bringing  un- 
merchantable Meat  into  the  Town  and  with  a  Letter  from  the 
Selectmen  of  Roxbury,  transmitting  the  same  were  read 

The  Committee  appointed  "to  devise  means  for  the  further  se- 
curiety  and  defence  of  the  Town,  in  case  of  an  Invasion"  —  Re- 
ported and  the  same  having  been  read,  a  Motion  was  made  and 
carried  that  said  Report  be  recommitted 

[398.]  Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being  the  16th.  of  August 
Ins'.  9.  O. Clock  in  the  Forenoon 

Monday  9.  O. Clock  in  the  Forenoon  meet  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  enquire  what  is  further  necessary 
to  be  done  by  the  Town  for  their  security  in  case  of  Invasion  have 
attended  that  service  and  beg  leave  —  To  Report  —  That  great 
part  of  the  Arms  quoted  in  the  Schedule  delivered  to  the  Com- 
mittee as  put  into  the  Hands  of  the  Melitia  Officers  of  the  Town, 
were  delivered  to  several  Persons  who  from  time  to  time  went 
into  the  Publick  service,  as  the  Town  quota,  or  Draught  of  Men 
for  one  Department  and  another  and  are  not  returned  and  in  gen- 
eral they  were  very  bad  Arms  and  many  of  them  burst  in  the 
Tryall,  they  therefore  recomend  to  the  Town  to  direct  the  Select- 
men to  make  immediate  Application  to  the  Honble.  Council  of  the 
State  for  a  Loan  of  Such  Arms  as  Col0.  Hatch  shall  report  are 
Still  defficient  the  same  to  be  put  into  his  Hands  to  be  delivered 
from  time  to  time  as  there  may  be  occasion  for  the  immediate  de- 
fence of  this  Town,  to  his  Officers  for  the  use  of  such  Persons  in 
their  respective  Companies  as  are  not  able  to  procure  Arms  for 
themselves  to  be  returned  in  the  Fall 

That  Col0.  Hatch  is  of  Opinion  that  the  fixed  amunition  men- 
tioned in  the  aforesaid  Schedule  is  in  possession  of  his  several 
Officers  [299.]  That  He  has  taken  a  List  of  it  and  will  ascertain 
the  Quantity  and  where  deposited 

Your  Committee  are  of  Opinion  that  it  would  be  enestimable 
service  in  case  of  Invasion  and  therefore  wish  to  have  it  recom- 
mended by  the  Town  to  a  number  of  Gentlemen  who  have  been  in 
the  Continental  and  State  Artillery  Service  to  form  themselves 
into  an  Association  or  Independant  Corps  for  the  purpose  of  tak- 
ing such  command  rendering  such  service  as  may  be  Assigned 
them,  and  also  that  one  or  more  Companies  of  Artillery  be  raised 
from  among  the  Masters  of  Vessells,  and  other  Inhabitants  for 
the  defence  of  the  Town,  and  put  under  immediate  Discipline 

They  further  Reported  that  it  be  Recomended  to  give  Orders 


78  City  Document  No.   80. 

for  presenting  all  Persons  who  shall  neglect  to  Equip  themselves, 
or  to  attend  the  Millitary  Masters  to  the  utmost  extent  of  the 
Law 

They  also  earnestly  recommend  to  such  Gentelmen  who  have 
hitherto  Neglected  Military  Duty  to  turn  out  in  their  Several 
Wards  that  all  Companies  may  equal  those  whose  accomplish- 
ments in  the  Military  Art  while  they  reflect  the  highest  Houour  on 
them  must  be  productive  of  the  most  Assential  Service  in  time  of 
Danger 

All  which  is  humbry  Submitted 

Samuel  Barrett  Chairman 
[300.]     The  foregoing  Report   having    been   read   and   con- 
sidered Paragraph  by  Paragraph,  the  Question  was  put  u  Whether 
the  Report  as  it  how  stands  amended  be  accepted  —  passed  in  the 
Affermative  —  also 

Voted,  that  Cap'.  Gustavus  Fellows 

Col0.  Thomas  Dawes 

Col0.  Thomas  Crafts 

Col°.  Nathaniel  Barber 

Cap'.  Diamond  Moreton 

Cap*.  Job  Prince 

Cap1.  Daniel  Martin 
be    and   hereby   are  appointed    a    Committee    to   endeavour    the 
obtaining  such  Associations  as  are  reff erred  to  in  the  two  foregoing 
Articles,  and  also  the  carrying  the  other  Articles  of  said  Report 
into  effect 
On  a  Motion 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  requested  to  make  further  enquiry 
into  the  disposal  of  eighty  Fire  Arms  delivered  by  them  to  the 
Militia  Officers  of  this  Town,  and  five  hundred  eighty  seven 
delivered  to  Col0.  Edward  Procter  by  order  from  the  Selectmen 
aforesaid  on  the  Board  of  War,  sometime  in  May  1777  which 
667  Arms  were  delivered  by  the  said  Board  of  War,  pursuant  to 
a  Resolve  of  the  General  Court  of  May  6th.  1777  —  the  Selectmen 
to  Report  how  many  of  the  said  Arms  are  now  in  the  Town,  and 
where  deposited ;  and  how  the  others  were  disposed  of ;  also  to 
make  an  enquirey  relative  to  a  Number  of  Cartridges  delivered 
to  the  Militia  Officers-  being  part  of  the  Town  Stock 

[301.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  affix  the  Pricies  of  the 
Several  Articles  mentioned  in  the  4th.  and  5th,  Resolves  of  the 
Convention  held  at  Concord  July  14th.  1779  Reported 

Whereas  the  Goods  and  wares  imported  from  Europe  are  so 
various  in  their  kinds  and  qualities  as  to  render  it  quite  impracti- 
cable to  determine  the  exact  Price  at  which  every  Article  ought 
to  sold  and  it  is  necessary  the  Pricies  of  those  kinds  of  Goods, 
should  be  reduced  in  the  same  proportion  as  the  West  India 
Imports 

Therefore  Resolved  that  all  Holders  and  Retailers  of  Europian 
Wares  and  Merchandize  shall  from  time  to  time  forward  sell  all 
such  Articles  at  twenty  pC.  or  one  fifth  part  less  than  the  Prices 
at  which  the  same  Articles  were  sold  in  the  Month  of  July  last, 
that  beirjii  the  avarige  deduction  in  the  Prices  of  West  India  Goods 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  79 

And  in  Order  that  the  aforegoing  Resolve  may  be  more 
effectually  complyed  with,  and  that  all  those  who  wish  to  enrich 
themselves  at  the  Expence  of  their  Neighbours,  and  who  on  all 
Occasions  are  disposed  to  take  Advantage  of  our  Friends  in 
the  Country  may  be  prevented  in  future  from  Preying  upon  their 
more  worthy  fellow  citizens  and  Country  Bretheren 

Be  it  Resolved,  that  William  Cooper  Esqr.  Mr.  Gibbens  Sharp, 
Cap'.  Isaac  Phillips,  Col0.  Edward  Procter,  Cap1.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Major  Thomas  Melvill,  Mr.  Henrv  Prentice,  Mr.  William  Hoskins 
[302.]  Cap4.  Alexr.  Willson  Dr.*  Nath1.  Noyes  Mr.  Samuel  Rug- 
gles,  Mr.  Joshua  Pulling  and  Dr.  Charles  Jarvis,  be  a  Committee 
with  whom  may  be  lodg'd  Complaints  of  all  Violations  and  eva- 
sions of  the  above  Resolve,  who  are  hereby  impowered  and  directed 
to  enquire  into  all  Such  complaints  and  to  Publish  the  Names  of 
those  who  upon  good  and  Satisfactory  Evidence  may  be  convicted 
of  Violating  or  evading  said  Resolves,  as  Enemies  to  their  Country 
as  they  may  be  delt  with  according  to  their  Demerit  and  all  Per- 
sons whether  from  the  Town  or  Country,  who  may  think  themselves 
imposed  upon  by  any  Person  in  the  Town  in  not  Complying  with 
the  aforegoing  Resolve  are  hereby  desired  to  lodge  a  Complaint 
with  aforementioned  Committee  that  the  Matter  may  be  enquired 
into 

Resolved  that  the  following  Prices  for  Labourers  and  Manu- 
factures &c.  be  the  highest  that  shall  be  demanded  or  given  for 
the  future  Labourers  60/  p  Day  they  finding  themselves  Ship- 
Carpenters,  Carpenters,  caulkers,  Riggers  Ship  Joiners  House- 
wrights  and  Masens  78/  p  Day  they  finding  themselves — Black- 
smiths Block  makers,  Carvers,  Cabinet  makers  Peiwtarers  shall 
reduce  their  Prices  at  Least  10  p  C4.  from  the  Preasent  Prices  — 
Printers  Ropemakers  Boat  Builders  Coopers  Cordwainers  and  Tin- 
men shall  reduce  their  Prices  at  least  twenty  pc  from  the  Present 
Prices — Saillmakers  shall  not  have  more  than  £1.8/  p  Bolt  for  work- 
ing New  Canvas  and  for  old  Work  in  Proportion  [303.]  Tanners 
18/  p  Pound  for  Sole  Leather  and  other  Leather  in  proportion  — 
Leather  Dressers  for  a  pr.  Dearskin  Breeches  of  the  very  best  sort 
—  £35  and  other  Articles  in  proportion —  Hatters  for  best  Beaver 
Hatts  £35.  beaveretts  £24  and  felt  Hatts£4  each,  Barbers  and  hair 
Dressers  shall  reduce  their  Prices  from  the  present  rates  at  least 
15/  Tailors  shall  not  have  more  than  £18  p  Suit  for  plain  Cloaths 
£22.  10/  for  half  trimed,  and  other  Work  in  proportion  — 
Painters  shall  reduce  their  Prices  from  the  present  rate  15  p  C*. 
Ship  Chandlers  shall  reduce  their  prices  from  the  present  Rate 
20  p  C.  execept  Pitch  which  shall  not  exceed  £35  p  Barrell  and 
Tar  and  Turpentine  £30.  each  Truckman  for  truckage  of  a  Large 
Hogshead  of  Sugar  18/  Molasses  Rum  &c  15/  tierces  9/  Barrel  4/ 
by  the  Load  and  Other  Work  in  proportion  —  Wharfingers  for 
Wharfage,  Cording,  Sealing  and  carrying  off  Wood  £3.  12/  p  Cord 
Farriers  for  Shoeing  a  Horse  all  round  £6  and  for  shifting  a  set  of 
Shoes  48/  — Refined  Iron  £37.  10/  p  G.  Card  makers  £36  p  doz". 
for  Cards  and  66/  a  single  pair.  Glaziers  for  setting  Glass  and 
finding  the  putty  shall  not  have  more  than  4/  6  p  square,  Inholders 
and  Victuallers  shall  reduce  their  Prices  of  Victualling  and  Horse 


80  City  Document  No.   80. 

Keeping  in  proportion  to  the  Reduction  of  the  Prices  of  Provisions 
and  Hay  —  Hucksters  shall  not  take  more  than  Six-pence  advance 
upon  the  shilling  —  Fishmongers  shall  not  take  more  than  12d.  p 
pound  for  Cod,  3d.  for  Haddock  and  1/  3  for  Hallybut,  without 
entrails,  Goldsmiths  shall  not  demand  of  the  Purchaser  no  more 
than  the  weight  of  the  Plate  they  Manufacture  and  twenty  Times 
what  they  had  for  their  Labour  in  Manufacturing  before  the  year 
1775  [304.]  All  Other  Tradesmen  not  mentioned  shall  reduce 
their  Prices  in  an  Average  proportion  with  those  of  their  Bretheren, 
and  the  Article  of  Consumption 

Isaac  Smith  p  Order 

Which  Report  having  been  read  and  taken  up,  Paragraph  by 
Paragraph  the  Question  was  put  Viz'.  Whether  such  Report  as 
amended  by  the  said  Town  be  accepted  passed  in  the  Affermative 
and  so  far  as  relates  to  regulating  prices  of  Goods  unanimously 

Adjourned  to  5.  O.Clock  P.M. 

5.  OClock  Met  according  to  Adjournment  A  Committee  Ap- 
pointed to  consider  and  report  the  most  effectual  and  Speedy 
Measures  for  carrying  the  Resolves  of  the  Convention  and  of  the 
Town  into  Effect  reported  as  follows 

Whereas  the  carrying  into  effect  the  Resolutions  of  the  Conven- 
tion at  Concord  and  the  subsequent  Resolves  of  this  Town  in  Con- 
formity thereto  is  of  the  last  importance  to  the  Community  and 
the  Violation  of  them  in  the  present  scituation  of  Publick  Affairs  a 
crime  of  the  deepest  dye 

Voted,  that  any  Person  directly  or  indirectly  either  bjT  himself 
or  any  Person  for  and  under  him  who  shall  buy  or  sell,  or  Offer  to 
give  or  take  an  higher  price  at  publick  Market  or  private  Sale  or 
who  may  withhold  any  Article  except  from  Persons  who  may  be 
Inhabitants  of  such  places  as  have  not  Adopted  simaler  measures 
or  in  any  [305.]  Other  Way  whatever  Violate  the  said  Resolu- 
tions shall  have  his  or  her  Names  Published  by  the  Committee 
hereafter  Appointed  in  the  News  Papers  in  this  Town  that  the 
Publick  knowing  may  Abstain  from  all  Trade  And  Conversation 
with  them  and  the  People  at  Large  inflict  upon  them  that  Punish- 
ment which  such  Wretches  deserve  to  trade  or  hold  any  intercourse 
or  conversation  with  such  Persons 

Voted,  that  it  is  the  duty  of  every  Citizen  to  keep  a  Vigilant 
Eye  upon  his  Neighbour  that  Any  infrindgements  upon  the  Resolu- 
tions aforesaid  may  be  prevented  and  where  it  may  unhappely 
take  place  to  give  immediate  information  to  the  Committee, 
Appointed  to  receive  such  Complaints 

Voted,  that  William  Cooper  Esqr.  Deacon  Gibbens  Sharp, 
Cap1.  Isaac  Phillips,  Col0.  Edw'1.  Procter,  Cap'.  Gustavus  Fellows, 
Majr.  Thomas  Melvill,  Mr.  Henry  Prentice,  Mr.  William  Hoskins, 
Cap'.  Alex1".  Wilson  Docf.  Nath1.  Noyes,  Mr.  Sam1.  Ruggles, 
Cap'.  John  Pulling  and  Docf.  Charles  Jarvis,  be  a  Committee  for 
the  purpose  aforesaid,  In  as  much  as  sending  Servants  to  the 
Market  Ferries  to  the  Neck,  and  to  the  Neighbouring  Towns  with 
discretionary  Orders  has  a  direct  tendency  to  counteract  the 
Resolves  of  the  Convention  and  of  this  Town 


Boston   Town  Records,  1779.  81 

Therefore  it  is  repeatedly  and  especially  Resolved  that  if  any 
Person  who  shall  by  his  Servant  or  any  Person  under  him  presume 
either  directly  or  indirectly  to  Offer  or  give  either  in  Town  [306.] 
Or  out  of  it  for  any  Article  of  Consumption  an  higher  Price  than 
is  Stipulated  therefore  in  the  Resolves  aforesaid  incure  the  higest 
Resentment  of  the  People  and  be  proceeded  against  as  in  the  first 
preceeding  Resolves,  And  the  Committee  of  Twelve  Appointed  to 
Aid  the  Civil  Magistrate  in  the  Execution  of  the  Monopoly  Act, 
are  hereby  appointed  a  Committee  to  Advance  and  Assist  the 
Committee  of  thirteen  aforesaid  in  carrying  this  Resolve  into  the 
fullest  Execution 

The  Committee  further  Report  that  the  Inhabitants  in  all  their 
Purchases  of  Meat,  buy  by  the  Pound  and  not  by  the  quarter  as 
the  latter  Mode  is  an  Inlet  to  great  evasions  and  may  elude  the 
salutary  Purpose  in  View 

That  it  be  earnestly  recommended  to  the  Committee  of  the 
Neighbouring  Towns  to  Meet  together  as  Speedialy  as  possible  at 
any  Town  which  they  may  think  proper  to  fix  the  Prices  which 
Vegetables  and  other  Articles  not  already  regulated  as  usually 
brought  to  this  Market  shall  be  sold  and  delivered  in  this  Town 
and  make  returne  to  the  Committee  of  the  State  Convention  in 
order  that  the  same  may  be  Published  for  the  Goverment  of  its 
Inhabitants 

Nathaniel  Appleton  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  considered  and  amended,  it 
was  Voted  unanimously  that  the  Town  do  accept  the  same 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  foregoing  Report  and  the  preceed- 
ing Report  relative  to  affixing  [307.]  Prices  be  printed  in  the 
Thursdays  Papers  ;  and  that  the  same  be  also  printed  in  hand 
Bills  as  also  the  Prices  of  Articles  affexed  by  the  Convention,  and 
disposed  among  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town. 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  be  requested  to  print  the  foregoing 
Votes  in  the  Thursdays  Papers 

The  Committee  appointed  on  the  Petition  of  severell  Butchers 
and  others.     Reported  and  agreeable  to  said  Report 

Voted,  that  Shops  or  Stalls  be  opened  in  the  Severell  parts  of 
the  Town  for  supplying  the  Inhabitants  with  Butchers  Meat 

Voted,  that  part  of  the  Stalls  in  Faneuil  Hall  Market  be  alloted 
to  the  Butchers  of  the  Town  under  such  regulations  as  the  Select- 
men shall  direct 

Voted,  that  all  the  Hides  and  Tallow  belonging  to  the  Creatures 
slaughtered  in  the  Town  be  disposed  of  to  the  Inhabitants  who 
manufactur'd  the  same  for  sale 

To  prevent  Slaughter  Houses  being  set  up  in  such  Places  as  may 
be  a  Neusence  to  the  Inhabitants  —  Voted,  that  no  such  Houses 
be  improved  untill  approbation  is  obtained  therefor  from  the 
Selectmen 

Voted,  that  for  the  encouragement  of  any  Person  or  Persons 
who  will  undertake  the  Butchers  buissiness  and  open  a  Shop  or 
Stall  in  this  [308.]  Town  for  the  selling  of  Beef  Mutton  or 
Lamb  ;  the  Inhabitants  engage  to  give  the  preference  to  such 
Butchers  in  their  purchasing  of   Meat ;  also  that  those  Butchers 


82  City  Document  No.  80. 

shall  have  every  other  encouragement  Aid  an  Assistance  from  the 
Inhabitants  which  is  in  their  Power  to  afford  them. 

Voted,  that  upon  application  of  any  Person  or  Persons  who  are 
or  may  become  Inhabitants,  who  shall  undertake  the  Butchers 
Buissiness  in  the  Town,  for  a  recommendation  to  the  Farmers  to 
purchase  live  Stock,  the  Selectmen  approving  of  them  are  desired 
to  give  recommendations  accordingly 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  being  the  17th.  Inst.  11.  O. Clock 
Forenoon 

Tuesday  11.  O. Clock  Forenoon  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Whereas  Col0.  Thomas  Chase  D  Quarter  Masr.  General  has  repre- 
sented to  this  Meeting,  'that  he  had  agreed  with  a  Number  of 
Teamsters  for  the  Publick  service,  at  the  rate  of  eighteen  shil- 
lings a  Mile;  and  that  several  Persons  had  offered  to  the  same 
Teamstears  a  much  higher  price,  which  is  not  only  to  the  great 
damage  and  Detrement  of  the  service,  but  has  a  direct  tendency 
to  counteract  the  Measures  taken  for  establishing  the  Currency 
—  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Chase  be  desired  to  make  thorough  inquirey 
respecting  this  Matter  and  [309.]  Give  information  of  the  facts 
and  Persons  to, the  Committee  of  Thirteen  that  those  Offenders 
may  be  proceeded  with  agreeable  to  the  Resolves  of  the  Town 

Voted,  that  it  be  earnestly  recommended  to  the  publick  Spirited 
Merchants  of  this  Town,  that  they  continue  their  utmost  exertions, 
to  procure  as  great  a  Sum  to  be  loned  to  Government,  as  can 
possibly  be  obtained,  considering  how  much  depends  upon  the 
success  of  this  measure 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  the  last  paragraph,  in  the  Re- 
port of  the  Committee  for  affexing  prices  as  it  respects  Lumber 
and  Wood  be  not  printed 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  Appointed  to  procure  Loans  in  the 
several  Wards  who  have  not  made  their  Reports  be  desired  to  do 
it  immediately 

On  a  Motion 

Voted,  That  this  Town  in  conformity  to  the  recommendation  of 
the  late  Convention  at  Concord,  will  appoint  Delagates  for  the 
Purposed  Convention  to  meet  at  Concord  in  October  next ;  and 
the  Selectmen  are  directed  to  call  a  Meeting  in  Season  for  this 
Purpose 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  who  are  Free  and  twenty  one  years  of  age  at 
Faneuil    Hall  the  12th.  Day   of  August  Anno    Domini   1779 

("310.]     Warrant  for  calling  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw,  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted, 
it  appeared,  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  unanimously 

The  Resolve  of  the  General  Court  relative  to  the  forming  a  new 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  83 

Constitution  or  Form  of  Goverment  for  the  People  of  this 
State  —  was  read 

A  Motion  made  that  the  consideration  of  the  number  of  Dela- 
gates  to  be  chosen  for  the  Convention  to  set  at  Cambridge  for  the 
Sole  purpose  of  framing  a  New  Constitution,  be  referred  over  to 
the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  —  And  the  Question  being  ac- 
cordingly put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

It  was  then  moved  and  carried  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned 
to  Monday  next  being  the  16th.  Day  of  August  3.  O. Clock  in  the 
Afternoon  then  to  meet  in  this  Place 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  August  16th.  1779  —  3.  O. Clock  P:  M: 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

[311.]  General  Hancock  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
having  acquainted  the  Town  that  he  was  by  sickness  prevented 
from  giving  his  attendance ;  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to 
withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  Pro.  Tem°. 
and  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

The  Town  having  taken  into  consideration  what  number  of  Del- 
agates  shall  be  chosen  for  the  Convention  at  Cambridge,    it  was 
Voted,  that  twelve  Persons  be  chosen  to  Represent  this  Town  in 
said  Convention 
On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  the  Poll  for  the  advice  of  Delagates,  be  closed  at 
6.  O. Clock 

The  Vote  being  brought  in  for  twelve  Delagates,  and  counted, 
it  appeared  that  only  Ten  were  chosen  Viz4. 

The  Honble.   James  Bowdoin  Esqr.         187 
The  Honble.   Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  192 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  185 

The  Honble.  Oliver  Wendell  Esqr.  189 
Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr.  165 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr.  137 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr.  148 

John  Lowell  Esq1.  141 

Samuel  A.  Otis  Esqr.         119 
Dr.  Charles  Jarvis  133 

[312.]     The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  two  more  Delagates  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that  only  one  was  chosen  Viz'. 
Ebenezer  Storer  Esqr. 
Adjourned  to  to  Morrow  Morning  10.  0. Clock  A:  M: 

Tuesday  the  17th.  Day  of  August  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon  —  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Storer  chosen  yesterday  one  of  the  Delagates  having  de- 
sired, that  he  might  be  excused  from  serving  in  that  place  —  the 
Question  was  accordingly  put  —  which  passed  in  the  Negative 

The  Inhabitants  bavins;  been  desired  to  withdraw  and  bring;  in 


84  City  Document  No.   80. 

their  Votes  for  one  other  Delagate,  and   the   same   having  been 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

Voted,  that  the  Delagates  aforementioned,  be  and  hereby  are 
Instructed  to  Cause  a  printed  Copy  of  the  Form  of  a  Constitution, 
they  may  agree  upon  in  Convention,  to  be  transmitted  to  the  Se- 
lectmen of  each  Town  ;  and  the  Committee  of  each  Plantation  ;  to 
be  by  them  laid  before  their  Respective  Towns  and  Plantations 
for  their  Consideration,  in  order  to  its  being  approved  or  dis- 
proved, and  other  wise  acted  upon  pursuant  to  a  late  Resolve  of 
the  General  Court  of  this  State 

[313.]     Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  iu  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  Sepr.  3d.  1779.10.  O.Clock  A.M. 

Warrant  for  calling  Meeting  —  read 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  be  chosen 
by  a  Hand  Vote 

John  Rowe  Esq1'. 
was  accordingly  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

The  Committee  of  Thirteen  appointed  by  the  Town  to  inforce 
the  Regulations  of  the  late  Convention  &c — having  acquainted 
the  Inhabitants  of  their  proceedings  with  respect  to  Cap'.  Alex- 
ander Mackay  as  a  Viola ter  of  said  Resolutions  ;  and  also  laid 
before  them  his  late  Publication,  which  greatly  reflects  on  said 
Committee  —  A  Motion  was  made  that  the  said  Alexander  Mackay 
be  required  to  give  his  attendance  at  this  Meeting  which  passed  in 
the  Affer iiiative 

The  Article  in  the  "Warrant.  Viz*.  — To  consider  of  the  Petition 
of  a  number  of  the  Inhabitants  setting  forth,  that  they  are  appre- 
hensive that  the  greatest,  distress  imaginable  must  soon  take  place 
from  the  scarciety  of  Fire  Wood  ;  and  therefore  [314.]  Request- 
ing, that  application  may  be  made  as  soon  as  possible  to  the 
Honble.  the  Council  of  this  State,  that  Convoys  may  be  appointed 
for  the  encouragement  and  securitey  of  the  Coasters  and  others 
who  bring  that  Article  to  this  Market ;  or  to  take  such  other 
measures  therein  as  may  be  Judged  proper  —  was  read,  and  after 
some  debate,  it  was  moved,  and 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  take  this  matter  into 
consideration,  and  Report  to  the  Town  what  they  apprehend  best 
to  be  done  thereon 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Sears 

Joseph  Barrel 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  for  stating  the  prices  of  Merchandize 
&c  be  desired  to  Report  their  doings  at  the  Adjournment 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  85 

Alexander  Mackay  appeared ;  and  the  Committee  of  Thirteen, 
and  said  Mackay  having  been  fully  heard  —  the  Question  was  put 
Viz'. — -  Whether  it  appears  to  this  Town  that  the  Committee  in 
publishing  the  Name  of  Alexander  Mackay  as  an  Enemy  to  his 
Country,  were  well  founded  with  respect  to  facts ;  and  that  they 
have  acted  therein  with  fidelity  and  a  due  concern  for  the  Publick 
interest  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

[315-]  The  Committee  relative  to  Fire  Wood  laid  their  Re- 
port on  the  Table  —  On  a  Motion  Adjourned  .to  3.  O. Clock  -  -  - 
Afternoon 

3.  O:  Clock  P.  M.  met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Publication  of  Alexander  Mackey  being  again  taken  up 

Voted,  Nem°.  Cone.  That  it  is  the  Opinion,  of  the  Town  that 
the  Peice  Signed  Alexander  Mackay  and  Published  in  Willis's 
Paper  of  last  Thursday,  is  a  false  infamous  and  Malicious  Libel 
on  a  respectable  Committee  of  this  Town,  and  this  Town  resent 
the  Writing  and  Publishing  of  said  Libel  as  affrontive  to  them  — 
also 

Voted,  Nem°.  Conde.  that  this  and  the  preceeding  Vote  respect- 
ing Alexander  Mackay  be  published  in  the  several  News  Papers, 
that  the  good  People  of  this  State  may  consider  the  said  Mackay 
as  deserving  the  full  punishment  Assign'd  such  Offenders  in  their 
late  Resolves 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  Fire-Wood  was  again 
read,  and  considered  Paragraph  by  Paragraph  —  and  after  longe 
debate 

Voted,  that  the  Inhabitants  and  Wharfingers  be  desired,  not  to 
give  more  than  sixty  Dollars  p  Cord  for  Wood  brought  to  this 
Market,  and  that  the  Wharfingers  who  have  Wood,  be  desired  not 
to  dispose  of  more  than  two  loads  to  one  Person  at  a  time 

[316.]  Voted,  that  the  Distillers  be  earnestly  requested  im- 
mediately to  distill  ye.  Cisterns  they  now  have  working,  and  are 
no  longer  to  distill  any  more  untill  the  Town  is  supplied  with  that 
very  Article  and  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  see  what 
quantity  of  Wood  is  now  in  the  hands  of  the  Distillers,  and 
Report  immediately 

On  a  Motion  the  further  consideration  of  the  forementioned 
Report  was  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourn'd  to  Tuesday  next  9. 
O:  Clock.  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Thursday  the  9th.  Day  of  September  9.  O:  Clock.  Forenoon  met 
according  to  Adjournment  but  no  Bells  having  been  rung,  and  but 
few  Inhabitants  attending  the  Meeting  was  further  Adjourned  to 
3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

3.  O:  Clock  Afternoon  the  Town  met  according  to  Adjournment 
John  Rowe  Esq.  in  the  Chair 

The  Inhabitants  being  Informed  that  the  Town  Clerk  was  by 
Sickness  prevented  from  giving  his  Attendance 


86  City  Document  No.   80. 

Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles 
was  appointed  Town  Clerk  Pro.  Tern0. 

The  Committee  at  this  Meeting  Reported  the  quantity  of  Wood 
in  the  hands  of  the  Distillers 

[317.]  The  Town  entered  on  a  further  consideration  of  the 
Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  Fire- Wood,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  appoint  two  or  more 
Persons  to  Measure  all  the  Wood  carreying  into  this  Town  by 
Land,  who  shall  give  to  every  Teamster  a  Ticket  as  has  been 
usual  heretofore  ;  —  the  Purchaser  to  pay  for  measuring 

Voted,  that  the  Distillers  be  permitted  to  import  what  Wood 
they  may  have  occasion  for  provided  they  do  not  interfere  with 
the  common  course  of  supply  by  Coasters  who  usually  supply  this 
Market,  nor  purchase  of  the  Country  People  bringing  in  their 
Wood  by  Land  —  also 

Voted,  That  Wood  from  the  Eastward  should  not  be  at  a  higher 
price  then  sixty  Dollars  a  Cord  — but  in  as  much  as  our  Bretheren 
who  supply  us  by  Water  from  that  Quarter,  run  great  hazard  it 
was  further 

Voted,  that  twelve  hundred  Dollars  be  paid  to  the  Persons,  that 
shall  bring  into  this  Town  the  greatest  quantity  of  Cord  Wood, 
from  this  Time  to  the  First  Day  of  April  next — And  one  Thou- 
sand Dollars  to  the  next  largest  Importer  —  to  be  paid  them  by  the 
Town  Treasurer,  upon  Certificate  being  produced,  from  the  Select- 
men of  this  Town  —  And  that  it  be  recommended  to  the  Wharfin- 
gers that  they  supply  no  single  Familey  with  more  than  two  Cord 
at  a  time  untill  the  Town  is  better  supplied 

[318.]  It  was  then  moved  that  a  Large  Committee  be  ap- 
pointed to  prevent  Wood,  Meat  &c  &c  from  being  ingrossed, 
before  it  entered  the  Town,  but  it  being  dark  the  consideration 
thereof,  and  some  other  Affairs  of  importance  mentioned  by  the 
Moderator,  which  comes  under  the  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz1. 
—  To  consider  whether  any  further  steps  shall  be  taken  for  the 
better  supply  of  this  Market  with  the  Necessaries  of  Life,  was 
refferred  over  to  the  next  Town  Meeting  then  to  be  acted  upon  if 
the  Town  should  Judge  proper 

Then  the  Meeting;  was  Dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneauiel  Hall  on  Thursday  the  14th.  Day 
of  September  1779—9.  O. Clock  A:  M 

The  Precept  and  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting — read 

The  Question  was  then  put  Viz1.  Whether  the  Town  will  now 
proceed,  agreeable  to  the  Precept  read,  to  Elect  and  Depute  one 
Person  to  Represent  them  in  the  Great  and  General  Court  or 
Assembly  now  convened  at  the  State  House  in  Boston  in  the  Room 
of  the  Honblc.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  who  has  been  Elected,  to  and 
taken  a  Seat  at  the  Honble.  Board"  —  and  the  same  passed  in  the 
Negative 

[319.]     The  Town  having  Voted,  not  to  come  to  the  choice 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  87 

of  a  Representative  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Adams — A  Motion  was 
then  made  that  a  Moderator  be  now  chosen  that  the  Town  may 
proceed  to  consider  and  determine  upon  the  other  Articles  in  the 
Warrant 

The  Inhabitants  having  withdrawn  and  brought  in  their  Votes 
for  a  Moderator 

It  Appeared  that 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
was  chosen  unanimously 

The  Town  Clerk  being  detained  at  home  by  sickness 
Mr.  Elisha  Avery 
was  chosen  Clerk  Pro.  Tern0. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  take  into  consideration 
a  Representation  of  the  Hattmakers  of  the  Town,  setting  forth 
the  difficulties  they  Labour  under  on  Account  of  the  price  fixed 
to  Beaver  Hatts,  and  the  reasonableness  of  an  alteration  in  that 
Article "  —  was  read,  and  after  some  debate  had  thereon  —  a 
Motion  was  made  that  the  Hattmakers  have  leave  to  withdraw 
their  Petition  —  and  the  Question  being  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affermative 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  — To  consider  and  determine 
upon  some  effectual  Measures  to  prevent  the  pernicious  practice 
of  Persons  going  on  the  Neck  and  at  the  Ferry  and  [320.] 
There  purchasing  Provisions  by  means  whereof  the  Inhabitants 
in  general  are  prevented  being  supplied  therewith  —  was  read, 
whereupon 

Voted,  that  Cap*.  Samuel  Hendley 
Cap'.  Amasa  Davis 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1'. 
be  a   Committee   to   take  said    Articles   into   Consideration    and 
Report  thereon 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  the  choice  of  Delagates 
for  the  Convention  to  be  held  at  Concord,  being  read  —  it  was 
determined  by  the  Town,  that  Seven  Persons  shall  be  chose  to 
Represent  them  in  said  Convention 

Adjourned  to  3.  0:  Clock  Afternoon 

3.  0. Clock  Afternoon  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  of  some  Method  to 
prevent  Persons  going  on  the  Neck  and  over  the  Ferry,  to 
purchase  Provisions  Report 

That  two  Persons  be  stationed  at  the  Fortification  near  the 
Neck,  and  two  Persons  at  Charlestown  Ferrey,  who  will  be 
directed  to  use  every  proper  Method  to  prevent  Persons  going 
over  the  Neck  and  passing  Charlestown  Ferrey  in  Order  to 
purchase  Provisions,  bringing  to  Market  which  Persons  to 
continue  on  said  Duty  Untill  the  Selectmen  shall  Judge  it 
unnecessary 

Sam  :  Henley  p  Order 

[321.]  The  Foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  con- 
sidered—  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  be  accepted 
—  Passed  in  the  Affermative 


88  City  Document  No.   80. 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Benf.  Edes 

JVP.  William  Hoskins 
Cap*.  John  Ballard 
be  a  Committee  to  prepare  a  List  of*  twenty  Persons  to  be  Stationed 
at  the  Fortification  and  Charlestown  Ferry  in  Rotation  to  prevent 
Persons  going  out  of  Boston  to  purchase  Provisions 

The  Town  having  brought  in  their.  Votes  for  Seven  Delagates, 
it  appeared  that 

John  Rowe  Esqr. 
Isaac  Sears  Esq1'. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr.      (excused 
Cap1.  Amasa  Davis  —  (excused 

Samuel  Barrel  Esqr. 
Cap1.  John  Ballard 
were  chose  Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 

Ezekiel  Price  Esq1'.  (excused 

Isaac  Smith  Esq1", 
were  chosen  Delagates  to  Represent  the  Town  at  the  Convention 
to  be  held  at  Concord  on  Wednesday  the  Gth.  of  October  next, 
then  and  there  with  such  Committies  as  may  be  sent  by  Other 
Towns,  to  take  into  consideration  the  Prices  of  Merchandize  and 
Country  Produce  and  to  do  those  things  that  may  be  necessary  for 
carrying  into  effect  such  measures  as  have  been  recommended  by 
Congress  in  their  late  Address  and  [322.]  The  Resolutions  and 
Proceedings  of  the  People  of  this  Town  in  consequence  of  said 
Address  at  their  several  Meetings 
On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  chosen  to  go  into  the  Country  to 
consult  within  the  several  Towns    upon   some  Measures  for  the 
better  supplying  the  Town  with  Provisions 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Isaac  Seers 

Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 
Mr.  Samuel  Breck 
Mr.  Enoch  Brown 
Cap1.  Alexander  Willson 
M1'.  Leonard  Jarvis 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  the  following  Persons   lie  the  Committee  to  attend 
at  the   Fortification  and  Charlestown   Ferry  in  Rotation,  two   at 
each  place  dayly,  for  the  purposes  of  preventing  People  going  out 
of  Town  to  purchase  Provisions  Viz'. 
North  End 
Cap'.  John  Pulling 
Mr.  Nathaniel  Hitchburne 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  John  Richardson 
Deacon  Sharp 
John  R.  Sigorney 
Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 
John  Kennedy 
John  Kneeland 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  b9 


[323.]  Moses  Grant 

Ephraim  Copeland 
Foster  Condy 

South  Ead 
Benjamin  Edes 
Norton  Brailsford 
Adam  Colson 
Joseph  Shed 
Joseph  Lovering 
Thomas  Uran 
Maf.  Thomas  Melvil 
Cap4.  Nath1    Curtis 
Christ0.  Clarke 
William  Fallas 
Thomas  Thompson 
Isaac  Pierce 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  atFaneiuel  Hall  Tuesday  the  21*.  Day  of  September  1779 
3.0:  Clock  Afternoon 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting —  read 

The  Inhabitants  having  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator 
of  this  Meeting  and  the  same  being  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

[324.]  The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 

was  chosen  unanimously 

The  Committee  appointed  to  go  into  the  Country,  Reported  partly 
in  Writing  by  Col°.  Sears  and  Mr.  Dorr,  and  partly  verbally  by 
Cap4.  Willson,  and  Mr.  Edes,  whereby  it  appeared  that  the  Town 
may  expect  a  Good  supply  of  Provisions  from  the  Country  Towns, 
and  that  it  would  be  well  they  should  have  Sugar  and  Rum  as 
wanted  —  that  the  Country  People  Apprehend  that  some  Mer- 
chants and  Shopkeepers  in  the  dry  Goods  way,  have  withheld  or 
raised  the  prices  of  those  Articles  of  Merchandize,  and  that  they 
are  also  under  apprehensions  with  respect  to  the  consequencies 
from  such  Quantities  of  Goods,  being  sent  to  Connecticut  or  sold 
to  the  Freeholders  of  that  State 

The  Question  was  then  put  "  Whether  these  Reports  be  accepted 
—  Passed  in  the  Affermative  unanimously 

Voted,  that  a  Committee    be  appointed    "to   take   the    afore- 
mentioned Report  into  consideration,  and  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment, what  they  apprehend  are  the  proper  steps  to  be   taken,  in 
order  to  support  the  Regulations  ;  and  that 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr* 
Richard  Devens  Esqr. 
James  Bowdoin  Junr.  Esqr. 
Cap4.  Amasa  Davis 
Mr.  John  Lucas 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
be  a  Committee  for  that  purpose 


90  City  Document  No.   80. 

[325.]     On  a  Motion 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  apply  to  such  Mer- 
chants Shopkeepers,  Distillers,  and  others  as  withhold  their  Goods 
from  Sale,  as  also  to  such  Merchants  as  Ask  for  or  sell  their 
Wares  at  more  than  the  regulated  prices,  and  to  inform  them, 
that  they  must  strictly  comply  with  the  Regulations  or  have  their 
Names  returned  to  the  Town  or  the  Committee  of  Thirteen 

Voted,  that 

Col0.  Isaac  Sears 
Cap'.  Willson 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  Enoch  Brown 
Mr.  Benjamin  Edes 
Mr.  William  Hoskins 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid 

And  said  Committee  are  also  directed  to  waite  upon  the  Conti- 
nental Agents,  and  all  the  whole  Sale  Merchants  and  Trader's 
together  with  the  Distillers,  and  request  of  them  an  Account  of 
the  Goods  and  Merchandize  they  have  sold  since  the  Regulations 
were  come  into,  the  Names  of  the  Purchasers,  and  the  Quantities 
sold  them  with  the  prices,  and  also  that  they  do  not  make  Sale  of 
more  than  on  hhd  of  Sugar  to  any  one  Person,  and  such  only  as 
usually  sell  those  Articles  in  this  Town  or  State,  except  to  Sugar 
Bakers,  who  shall  bona  fide  declare,  that  what  they  purchased  is 
for  boiling  only  and  not  for  Sale 

[326.]  The  Town  being  acquainted  that  some  Persons  of 
Biirica  had  sold  Rye  Bread  in  Boston  at  a  higher  rate  than  the 

regulated  price  and White  Esqr.  of  Biirica  being  in  this 

Meeting 

Voted,  that  the  said  M1'.  White  be  desired  to  use  his  Influence 
with  the  Committee  of  his  Town,  that  instead  of  Bread  the  People 
of  that  Town  would  send  their  Grain  or  Meal  to  this  Market  for 
the  supply  of  the  Inhabitants  at  this  time  of  scarcity 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  publish 
and  Advertizement  acquainting  the  Publick  that  Slaughter  Houses 
are  provided  by  the  Town  for  the  accommodation  of  the  People  in 
the  Country  who  may  send  their  Creatures  to  this  Market  for  the 
Supply  of  the  Inhabitants 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Town  will  countenance  and  sup- 
port all  those  who  shall  give  information  to  the  Committee  of  thir- 
teen of  any  Violations  of  the  Regulations 

Adjourned  to  Thursday  next  being  the  23d.  Day  of  September 
Ins1.  3.  O.  Clock  Afternoon 


Thursday  the  23d.  Day  of  September  3.  0. Clock  Afternoon  met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Honourable  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this 
.Meeting,  having  acquainted  the  Town  that  he  was  prevented  from 
giving  his  Attendance  — the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  bring  in 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  91 

their   Votes   for  a  Moderator   Pro.    Tern0,    and  the  same   being 
brought  in  &  sorted  it  appeared  that 

[327.]  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 

was  chosen 

Col0.  Sears  Chairman  of  the  Committee  appointed  to  waite  upon 
the  Merchants,  Traders  and  Distillers,  and  Cap1.  Willson  another 
of  the  Committee  being  at  the  Meeting  Reported  in  part ;  and 
were  desired  to  Report  again  at  the  Adjournment  of  the  Meeting 
—  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  having  desired  to  be  excused  from  serving 
on  the  forementioned  Committee,  he  was  accordingly  excused,  and 
it  was 

Voted,  that  Deacon  Freeman 
Mr.  Isaac  Pierce 
Mr.  John  Kne  eland 
Mr.  Joseph  Shed 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
be  added  to  the  Committee 

Voted,  that  the  above  Committee  make  inquirey  who  have  got 
Salt,  and  New  England  Rum,  and  not  only  as  to  what  the  Dis- 
tillers, have  by  them,  but  also  for  whom  they  distilled  Rum,  and 
the  quantity  distilled 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  to  inforce  the  Regulations  &c  was 
laid  before  the  Town 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that 

Mr.  Enoch  Brown 
Mr.  Samuel  Brick 
Mr.  Thomas  Dennie 
be  a  Committee  to  confer  with  Mujr.  Ruggles  and  Others  with  re- 
spect to  what  may  be  the  best  Method  [328.]  To  be  taken  with 
the  Cattle  and  Sheep  which  are  coming  into  this  Town  upon  the 
Hoof,    for   the    supply   of    the    Inhabitants  —  and   Report   their 
opinion  at  the  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to 
Monday  next  the  27th.  Day  of  Septemr.  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 
And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  the  27th.  Day  of  September  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
and  Ezekiel  Price  Esq1',  chosen  Moderator  Pro.  Teme.  being  en- 
gaged in  such  buissiness  as  prevents  the  Attendance  of  either  of 
them  —  the  Inhabitants  were  therefore  directed  to  withdraw  and 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  Pro.  Teme.  and  the  same 
being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appear'd  that 

John  Rowe  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

The  Committee  to  wait  upon  the  Merchants,  Traders,  Distillers 
&c  — Report 

That  the}'  have  waited  upon  several  Merchants  and  as  many 
Shopkeepers  as  the  time  Assigned  them  would  admit  —  that 
Mess".  Bruce  Pierce  Somes,  Fellows,  Prentice  &c.  will  strictly 
adhere  to  the  Regulatino-  Act  —  Mr.  John  Mollineux  told  us  that 


92  City  Document  No.  80. 

he  was  obliged  to  consult  his  Brother  William,  whome  we  met  soon 
after,  &  were  treated  by  him  with  indelicate  Language  the  effect 
of  high  passion 

[339.]  Deacon  Mason  and  Mr.  Joseph  Barrel  will  retail  their 
Goods  as  regulated,  but  are  not  disposed  to  sell  by  whole  Sale  — 
Jonathan  Amory  will  do  the  same,  but  as  to  rendering  an  Account 
of  Goods  sold  by  whole  sale  he  must  think  of  it 

Missrs.  Whitwell  Biggelow,  Winslow,  the  said  Barrel  Kneeland 
Prentice  Joseph  Pierce,  Davis.  J  Coolidge  and  M1'.  Cams  Baker, 
Houghton,  Brown,  Ford,  Jonsey  are  Shopkeepers  who  liave  con- 
formed and  mean  to  continue  selling  —  Mrs.  Molly  Williams 
replys,  she  cannot  determin  whether  she  will  conform,  as  the 
Merchts.  have  raised  their  Goods,  —  Mrs.  Curies  answered,  that 
she  did  not  know,  whether  she  should  sell  at  the  regulated  prices 
or  no  —  man}7  Stores  were  called  upon  the  Owners  not  within  — 
waited  upon  the  Agents,  Viz4.  Cap1.  Bradford  Messrs.  Brown  and 
Varnum  —  Messrs.  Clark  and  Nightingale,  from  whom  we  have 
received  Account  of  Sales  —  Called  upon  the  Distillers  with  the 
Town  Resolves  —  Messrs.  Barret  and  Hall,  Johonnot,  Hill, 
Perkins,  Hoskins,  Amory,  Fellows,  Bryant,  Porter,  Cable  — 
Joseph  Pierce,  Senr.  &  Junr.  Scollay,  Wells,  Rand,  Bradshaw 
and  Parker,  Hall  Larkin,  Hendley  Clark  &  Sloon  from  some  of 
whom  we  have  returns  made  of  Stock  on  hand 

Mr.  James  Perkins  not  in  Town,  the  Foreman  says  he  has  on 
hand  21  hhds  Molasses  4  —  or  500  Gall0.  Rum  and  10  Cisterns  set 

We  find  after  strict  inquirey  and  candid  answers  from  the 
Distillers,  there  is  not  that  quantity  of  Rum  and  Molasses  the 
Town  might  have  [330.]  Supposed  —  With  regard  to  Salt —  on 
Bells  Wharf,  at  Robins  Store  are  12  Casks  said  to  be  the  property 
of  Mr.  King 

Messrs.  Hubbards  and  Greeu  will  supply  the  Town  with  150 
bushels  Salt.  Messrs.  Wheelwright  and  Barnard  with  23  Bushels 
Salt  Cap1.  Ketchum  with  200  Bush8.,  Pitts  and  Call  —  with  2 
hhds.,  D°.  Isaac  Smith  Esqr.  with  10  or  15  bush1,  occaisonly  — 
Mr.  Thomas  Russell  will  supply  500  Gall8.  Rum 

The  Article  of  Cotton  Wool  is  explained  by  the  Naval  Officer 
Majr.  Barber 

The  Committee  agreed  with  Cap*.  Law  of  Brigg4.  Neassity 
September  24th.  for  700  bush8.  Turk8.  Island  and  1300  bushels 
Caidz  Salt  at  nine  pounds  to  be  delivered  the  27th.  Upon  applica- 
tion for  delivery  of  some  —  Cap4.  Law  replied  he  had  Sold  it,  to 
Cap4.  Ketchup  and  Mr.  Cook 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  after  some  considera- 
tion the  Question  was  put  —  Viz4.  Whether  the  Town  approve  of 
this  Report  so  far  as  the  Committee  have  proceeded  —  Passed  in 
the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  the  —  Question  was  put  —  "Whether  the  Report 
be  recommitted — Passed  in  the  Negative 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted  that  it  is  the  Sense  of  the  Town  that 
no  Salt,  Flour  &  Grain  shall  be  sold,  unless  by  retail,  untill, 
it  shall  be  Offered  to  the  Town  Committee  for  purchasing  said 
Articles 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  93 

[331.]  On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  M'.  Love  and  Cap1.  Kitchen, 
be  desired  to  Attend  the  Town  Meeting  at  the  Adjournment 

Voted,  that  the  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  to  Morrow  Morning  — 
and  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

September  28.  9.  OClock  Forenoon  Met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment 

M1.  Brown  and  Mr.  Sumner  being  in  the  Meeting  were  desired 
to  inform  the  Town  respecting  the  Salt  on  board  Cap':  Loves 
Vessel  —  they  according  gave  information,  that  Six  hhds  :  of  the 
Salt  of  Nineteen  hhds  :  on  the  Wharff  last  Evening,  were  removed 
from  the  Wharff  last  Night 

Mr.  Cook  being  in  the  Meeting  acquainted  the  Inhabitants,  that 
the  Six  hhds :  of  Salt  said  to  be  taken  from  the  Wharff,  were 
rolled  into  a  Store,  and  would  be  forth  coming 

Cap*.  Kitchen  being  in  the  Meeting  was  asked  whether  he  would 
Sell  his  Salt  to  the  Town  whether  in  Store  or  without  only  reserv- 
ing 100  hhds  for  his  own  use  —  on  which  he  gave  his  Answer  in 
the  Affermative 

Resolved,  that  the  Town  accept  of  the  thirteen  hundred  hhds  of 
Salt  offered  by  Mr.  Cook  at  the  regulated  price 
On  a  Motion.  Voted,  that 

Cap'.  Alexander  Willson 
Cap'.  Elias  Parkman 
Cap'.  John  Williams 
Cap'.  John  Matchet 
Majr.  James  Melvil 
[332.]  CoP.  Edward  Procter 

Cap'.  Gilbert  Speekman 
be  a  Committee  to  go  on  board  every  Vessel  I  in  this  Harbour,  and 
examin  what  is  a  board  and  Report  to  the  Town 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Barber  the  Navil  Officer  for  this  Port,  be  de- 
sired to  accompaney  the  Committee  in  this  Search 

On  a  Motion  the  Question  was  put  Viz'.  —  Whether  A  publick 
Store  shall  be  opend  in  this  Town,  for  the  Supply  of  the  Inhabi- 
tants of  this  Town  and  State  "  —  which  passed  in  the  Affermative 
—  also 

Voted  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  devise  ways  and  means 
for  procuring  the  Articles  wanted  and  Report  the  same  as  also 
what  Regulations  they  may  Judge  necessary  for  carrying  the 
Measures  into  execution 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Sears 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Mr.  William  Foster 
Cap'.  Amasa  Davis 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Leonard  Jarvis 
John  Rowe  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  to  confer  with  a 
Committee  from  the  Town  of  Weymouth  relative  to  Supplying  the 
Town  with  Fire  Wood  to  Report  at  the  Adjournment 


94  City  Document  No.   80. 

The  Selectmen  soon  Reported  Whereupon 

[333.]  Voted,  that  the  Consideration  of  said  Report  be  re- 
ferred to  to  Morrow  Morning  9.  O. Clock,  and  that  the  Committee 
of  Weymouth  be  informed  thereof  by  the  Selectmen 

Adjourned  to  to  Morrow  Morning  9.0. Clock  Forenoon 

Wednesday  September  29th.  — 9.  O  Clock  Forenoon  met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  Fire  Wood  again  read 
and  is  as  follows  Viz'. 

The  Selectmen  a  Committee  to  confer  with  Cap1.  White  and  Mr. 
Bales,  a  Committee  from  Weymouth  relative  to  supplying  this 
Town  with  Wood  —  Report  That  the  Price  of  Wood  landed  at 
Boston  be  as  follows  —  Viz1. 

Oake   AVood    from    Weymouth,     Braintree     Hingham    &c.    by 

Water £20 p.  Cord 

Walnut  Wood -     -       23  -  -  -  p.    d°. 

Pine  Wood 13.10/     p.    d°. 

p  order  J.  Scollay 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  considered — the  Question 
was  put  —  Whether  the  Report  be  accepted  —  passed  in  the 
Affermative 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  forty  Shillings  p  Cord  be  added 
to  the  foregoing  prices  of  Wood,  for  all  such  Wood  as  shall  be 
brought  into  this  Town  by  Laud  and  delivered  at  the  Doors  of  the 
Purchasers  —  also 

Voted,  that  four  Persons  be  appointed  Sealers  of  all  Wood 
brought  in  by  Land  to  this  Town 

[334.]  The  Town  having  Voted,  that  a  Publick  Magazine  be 
opened  for  the  Reception  and  delivery  of  Freight  Articles,  of  con- 
sumption for  the  supply  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town  and 
State  —  The  Committee  appointed  to  devise  ways  and  means  for 
carrying  said  Vote  into  effect  beg  leave  to  Report 

That  a  Sum  not  less  than  sixty  thousand  Pounds,  be  raised  for 
this  Purpose  by  Subscription  of  Money  and  Stock  as  may  be  most 
agreeable  to  the  Subscriber  the  same  to  be  vested  in  the  following 
Articles  Viz1.  Tea  Sugar  Rum  Molosses  Coffee  Chocolat  Salt 
Gotten 

That  the  Buisiness  be  conducted  by  such  Persons  as  the  Sub- 
scribers shall  appoint,  and  on  such  terms  as  they  shall  agree  upon 
the  prices  not  to  exceed  those  Stated  by  the  Convention  at  Con- 
cord ;  the  profits  if  any  to  be  to  the  Subscribers  in  proportion  to 
the  Sum  Subscribed  by  each,  they  take  upon  themselves  all 
Riskes  — 

That  in  order  to  the  full  Supply  of  the  Magazine  aforesaid  the 
Several  Persons  known  to  be  possesed  of  the  Articles  above  speci- 
fied be  requested  to  attend  the  Meeting  of  the  Town  and  enquired 
of  whether  they  will  Subscribe  for  this  purpose  and  to  what 
amount  and  whether  in  Money  or  in  Stock  —  After  which  the 
Subscription  to  be  circulated  among  the  Merchants,  and  Traders 
at  large 

Your  Committee  are  of  Opinion  that  the  equity  of  this  Mode  of 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  95 

supply  and  its  being  every  Subscribers  Interest  to  ingage    in  it 
Will  insure  it  general  Support  —  all  in  &  order 

Isaac  Seaks  Chairman 
The    foregoing   Report   having   been   read    and    considered  — 
[335. }  The  Question   was   put  Whether  the  same  shall  be  ex- 
cepted —  Passed  in  the  Affermative,  unanimously 

The  Committee  to  go  on  board   Vessells  and    make   search  — 
Reported  — 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that 

Ellis  Gray  Esq1'. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Mr.  Bowdoin 
Mr.  Nathan  Fraizer 
Mr.  Edward  Edes 
Col0.  Thomas  Crafts 
Cap'.  Henley 
be  a  Committee  to  waite  upon  the  Merchants  &c  and  to  request 
their  Attendance  at  the  Meeting  this  Afternoon,  in  order  to  ac- 
quaint the  Town,  whether  they  will  subscribe  —  towards  the  fur- 
nishing  a   Publick   Store   with   Articles   for   the   supply   of    the 
Inhabitants 

Adjourned  to  3  O. Clock  Afternoon 

3  O. Clock  P.  M.     Met  according  to  Adjournment 
Mr.  Rowe  the  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0,  not  being  able  to  attend, 
the  Town  made  choice  of 

Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
as  a  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0. 

A  Pamphlet  lately  published  by  Congress  respecting  our  Cur- 
rency &c  —  was  read  to  the  Inhibitants  by  the  Town  Clark 
Voted,  that  Mr.  Enoch  Brown 
Mr.  John  Kneeland 
Cap'.  Alexander  Willson 
Mr.  William  Hoskins 
[336.]     Be  a  Committee  to  receive  and  Store  the  Salt  that  has 
been  purchased 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
James  Bowdoin  Junr.  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
be  a  Committee  to  procure  Subscription  for  the  Magazine 
Adjourned  to  Thursday  next.  9.  O.  Clock  Forenoon 

Thursday  September   30th.  9  :  O  :Clock   Before  Noon,  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that 

Cap1.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  Jeremiah  Belknap 
Mr.  Joseph  Shed 
be  a  Committee  to  call  upon  such  Persons  as  have  Salt  and  to  in- 
form them  that  the  Town  have  occasion  for  it,  for  the  supply  of 
the  Inhabitants 


96  City  Document  No.  80. 

It  was  motioned  that  the  Vote  passed  by  the  Town  Yesterday 
respecting  appointing  four  Measurers  of  Wood,  be  reconsidered, 
and  that  the  Selectmen  appoint  but  one  Measurer  for  the  Wood 
brought  in  by  Land 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Subscribers  for  a  Publick  Magazine 
be  authorized  and  impowered  to  make  use  of  the  Granary  as  a 
Publick  Store  if  they  should  have  occasion 

[337.]     On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 
Cap1.  Matchet 
Col0.  Jabez  Hatch 
Cap1.  Job  Prince 
be  a  Committee  to  go  round  to  the  Owners  of  Vessels  and  solist 
their  sending  them  to  the  Eastward  for  Wood,  their 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  stated  price  of  Flour  brought  into 
this  Market  be  Thirty  Pounds  p  hundred  which  is  conformable  to 
the  price  of  Wheat  affixed  by  the  Convention 

A  Motion  made  and  carried  that  the  Vote  directing  the  Select- 
men to  appoint  a  Sealer  of  Wood  be  reconsidered,  and  that  the 
Town  now  proceed  to  appoint  a  Sealer 

Deacon  Thomas  Baylej' 
was  accordingly  appointed  a  Sealer  of  Wood   brought   into   this 
Town  by  Land 

Voted,  that  the  Sealer  of  Wood  receive  of  the  Purchaser,  two 
Shillings  p  Load  for  the  Trouble  of  Measuring  and  the  Charge  of 
a  Certificate  to  be  delivered  him 

Whereas  it  is  the  wish  and  expectation  of  the  Town  that  the 
Convention  to  meet  at  Concord  the  first  Wednesday  of  October 
for  the  purpose  of  affixing  prices  upon  Merchandize  and  Country 
produce  should  as  soon  as  possible  after  their  Meeting,  State  the 
price  of  Wood  brought  into  this  Town  by  Land  and  Water,  to  be 
Lauded  at  the  Wharffs  or  [338.]  Brought  to  the  Doors  of  the 
Purchasers ;  and  Whereas  some  Persons  from  the  Price  of  Wood 
not  being  as  yet  stated  are  shamfully  taken  advantage  of  the 
distress  of  the  Inhabitants  for  want  of  Fuel  by  asking  enormous 
prices  for  their  Wood  —  therefore  Voted,  that  such  Persons  as 
shall  hereafter  sell  or  give  more  than  twenty  two  pounds  p  Cord 
for  Wood  brought  in  by  Land  to  the  Door  of  the  Purchaser  their 
Names  shall  be  returned  to  the  Committee  of  Thirteen,  that  they 
may  be  published  as  Violaters  of  the  Regulations  of  the  Convention 
and  this  Town,  and  the  Names  of  the  Sellers  sent  to  the  Commit- 
tee of  their  respective  Towns  to  be  dealt  with  as  they  shall  Judge 
proper. 

Voted,  that  no  one  presume  to  purchase  a  Load  of  Wood  with- 
out taking  a  Certificate  certifying  the  Quantity  contained  in  the 
load  purchased 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  cause  One  hundred  and  fifty  of  the 
preceeding  Votes  respecting  Wood  to  be  printed,  and  pasted  up  at 
different  parts  of  the  Town 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  To  determine  what  shall  be 
done  with  the  Towns  share  of  the  produce  of  the  Land  at  New 
Boston  "  —  read  whereupon 


Boston  Town   Records,  1779.  97 

Voted,  that  this  matter  be  left  to  the  Selectmen  to  do  thereon 
as  they  may  Judge  to  be  for  the  Interest  of  the  Town 

[339.]  On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Constables  of  the  Town 
be  directed  to  require  the  attendance  of  the  Hatters  who  had  signed 
a  publication  l'elative  to  Sarson  Belcher,  at  the  Adjournment  of 
this  Meeting 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  3.  O. 'Clock  Afternoon  — 

Fryday  October  1.  3.  O. Clock  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment 

The  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0,  being  absent  the  Town  made  choice 
of  another  by  written  Votes,  when  it  appeared  that 

Isaac  Sears  Esqr. 
was  chosen  unanimously 

Col0.  Brown  having  acquainted  the  Town,  that  a  quantity  of 
Wood  might  be  had  at  Reading,  and  brought  to  the  Landing  at 
Maiden  —  it  was 

Voted,  that  Cap'.  Ballard 
Col0.  Barber 
be  a  Committee  to  confer  with  said  Brown  in  that  Matter 

The  Hatters  who  had  signed  a  publication  in  support  of  Sarson 
Belcher  who  had  been  published  as  a  Violator  of  the  Regulations, 
being  required  to  attend  instead  of  attending,  they  appointed  a 
Committee  of  their  Body,  who  appeared  in  Town  Meeting 

The  Town  declining  to  hear  the  Committee,  the  Hatters  were 
again  required  to  give  their  Attendance 

[340.]     On  a  Motion    made  Voted,  that   the  Selectmen   be 
directed   to  waite  upon  the  Board  of   War.  and,  that  the  Stores 
'  they  have  in  the  Granary  may  be  immediately  removed 

Benjamin  Clark  Constable  was  turned  out  of  Meeting  by  the 
order  of  the  Moderator  for  disorderly  behaviour 

Voted,  that  the  Names  of  all  those  Hatters  who  have  vindi- 
cated Sarson  Belcher  in  a  late  publication,  except  such  as  shall 
retract  their  doings  before  the  Committee  of  Thirteen,  by  Monday 
next,  shall  be  published  by  said  Committee  in  the  next  Thursdays 
Papers,  asViolaters  of  the  Regulations,  and  deserving  the  resent- 
ment of  the  People 

Voted,  that  a  simular  Vote  with  what  was  published  respecting 
Cap'.  Alexander  Mackay  be  published  in  the  several  News  Papers 
respecting  Sarson  Belcher 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston,  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  Tuesday  the  19  Day 
of  October  9.  O. Clock  Forenoon 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

[341.]  The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

The  Hon1*16.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
was  chosen  unanimously 


98  Citt  Document  No.   80. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  To  consider  the  request  of  the 
Overseers  of  the  Poor,  that  further  provision  may  be  made  for 
the  supply  of  the  Almshouse" — was  read  and  considered  where- 
upon 

Voted,  the  Sum  of  Ten  thousand  Pounds  be  granted  in  Addition 
to  the  £6000.  granted  the  12th.  of  March  last  out  of  the  Tax 
already  Voted  to  defray  the  charges  of  the  Town  be  appropriated 
for  sole  use  of  the  Almshouse 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  directed 
and  impowered  to  borrow  a  Sum  of  Money  not  exceeding  Ten 
thousand  Pounds  to  be  paid  to  the  orders  of  the  Overseers  of  the 
Poor  for  the  support  of  the  Poor  in  the  Almshouse  for  which  he 
is  to  issue  his  negotiable  Notes  on  Interest  payable  to  the  Lenders 
out  of  the  present  Tax  ;  no  part  of  said  Sum  to  be  made  use  of 
for  any  Other  purpose  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor  with  such  Persons  as 
they  may  choose,  be  a  Committee  to  procure  Subscriptions  for  the 
ten  Thousand  Pounds,  to  be  appropriated  out  of  the  present  Tax 
for  the  Use  of  the  Almshouse,  for  which  the  Treasurer  is  to  issue 
his  Negotiable  Notes  carrying  Interest  payable  to  the  Lenders  in 
Current  Money  out  of  the  present  Tax 

[342.]  The  Articles  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  To  consider  the 
expediency  of  opening  a  Fish  Market  on  Dock  Square,"  was  read 
whereupon  a  Motion  was  made  and  carried  that  the  consideration 
thereof  shall  be  referred  till  after  the  Report  of  the  Committee  at 
Concord  shall  be  acted  upon 

The  Committee  of  Convention  having  Reported  Agreeable  to  a 
Motion  made  —  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock  After- 
noon 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  after  some  due  consider- 
ation of  the  same  the  Question  was  put  Viz',  whether  the  Town 
will  receive  and  adopt  the  Resolutions  and  proceedings  Aforesaid 
and  so  far  as  in  their  Power  will  take  every  effectual  Measure 
to  carry  them  into  execution  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative  —  but 
one  dissentient  previous  to  putting  the  Question  a  Motion  was 
made  that  the  further  consideration  of  the  Report  be  refferred  for 
a  fortnight  which  passed  in  the  Negative  almost  unanimously  — 
See  particulars  as  entered  at  large  in  the  Fair  Quarto  Book  of 
Town  Meetings  from  Page  199.  to  220 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  of  Merchants  be  ap- 
pointed to  affix  the  prices  of  European  Goods,  Wine  &c  Agree- 
able to  the  Resolves  of  the  Convention 

John  Rowe  Esq1. 

Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 

Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr. 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 

Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
[343.]  Mr.  Hammond  Brimmer 

Samuel  Austin  Esq1-. 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  99 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  of  Thirteen  appointed  to  see  the 
Resolves  of  the  former  Convention  and  this  Town  carried  into 
execution  be  the  Committee  for  carrying  the  Resolves  of  the  late 
Convention  into  effect 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  requested  to  appoint  a 
Measurer  of  Wood  brought  into  this  Town  by  Land 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  several  Committees  which  were 
Appointed,  to  procure  Subscriptions  for  the  Loan  Office,  be  de- 
sired to  call  upon  the  respective  Subscribers,  receive  their  Money, 
and  lodge  the  same  in  the  Loan  Office  there  to  take  Loan  Office 
Certificates  and  return  them  to  the  respective  Subscribers  ;  and 
said  Committee  are  requested  to  procure  further  Subscriptions  for 
the  Loan  Office,  there  to  take  Loan  Office  Certificates,  and  return 
them  to  the  respective  Subscribers ;  and  said  Commee.  are  re- 
quested to  use  their  utmost  influence  to  procure  further  Subscrip- 
tions, being  in  the  Opinion  of  this  Town  a  Matter  of  the  last 
consequence 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  serve  the  Chairman  of  the  several 
Committees  with  a  Copy  of  the  preceeding  Vote 

Majr.  Melvill  b}'  his  desire  was  excused  from  serving  any  longer 
as  one  of  the  Committee  of  Thirteen  and  Cap'.  John  Ballard  was 
chosen  in  his  room 

[344.]  Col0.  Daws  excused  by  his  desire  from  the  Committee 
to  procure  Subscriptions  and  Mr.  John  Tileston  was  appointed  in 
his  room 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  a  Fish  Market  read, 
whereupon  Voted,  that  the  Consideration  thereof  be  referred  to 
the  Adjournment 

Voted,  that  it  be  earnestly  recommended  to  the  Merchants, 
Shopkeepers  and  Traders  of  this  Town  to  open  their  Stores  and 
Shops  for  the  supply  of  our  Bretheren  in  the  Country  and  the  In- 
habitants of  this  Town  and  that  they  shall  at  least  by  Retail 

Voted,  that  the  Clerk  be  directed  to  publish  in  the  several  Papers 
the  foregoing  Votes  relative  to  the  Report  of  the  Committee  ap- 
pointed to  attend  the  late  Convention  at  Concord 

Moved  and  carried  that  in  order  to  give  the  Committee  to  affix 
prices  time  to  Report  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Tuesday 
next  10.  O. Clock.  A:  M:  and  this  Meeting  was  accordingly 
Adjourned 


Tuesday,  October  26th.  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon,  met  according  to 
Adjournment 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esq1",  the  Moderator  of  the  Meeting 
Unable  to  attend ;  the  Inhabitants  withdrew  and  brought  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  Pro.  Tem°.  and  the  same  being  brought  in 
and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

[345.]  Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 

was  chosen  Moderator  Pro.  Tern",  and  took  the  Seat  accordingly 

Several  of  the  Committee  of  Thirteen,  appointed  to  see  the 
Resolves  of  the  Convention  &c  executed,  being  out  of  Town,  or 
unable  to  attend 


100  City  Document  No.   80. 

Messrs.  Isaac  Peirce 

Edward  Green 
Christop1".  Clark 
Benjamin  Edes 
Adams  Colson 
were  chosen  in  the  room  of  Cap1.  Phillips,  Col0.  Edward  Proctor, 
Henry  Prentice,  Samuel  Ruggles  and  Dr.  Charles  Jarvis 

The  Committee  to  affix  Prices  on  European  Merchandise  Wine 
&c  Reported,  and  after  the  same  was  read  —  a  Motion  was  made 
and  passed,  that  the  said  Report  be  Recommitted 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  the  expediency 
of  erecting  a  Fish  Market  in  Dock  Square  was  again  read,  and 
the  same  having  been  duly  considered,  it  was  Voted,  that  it  be 
left  to  the  Selectmen  to  build  or  permit  to  be  built  as  many  Fish 
Stalls  over  the  Water  near  Dock  Square,  as  they  shall  Judge 
necessary,  and  to  affix  such  prices  on  Fish,  or  make  such  Agree- 
ments with  those  who  may  be  ready  to  supply  this  Market  with 
Fish  till  Spring,  as  they  shall  Judge  reasonable,  and  for  the  benefit 
of  the  Inhabitants 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed 
to  obtain  Supplies  of  the  Gentlemen  [346.]  In  Trade,  for  the 
supply  of  the  Publick  Store  —  and  that 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Henry  Hill  Esqr. 
Col0.  Thomas  Crafts 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  —  And  the  Committee 
are  desired,  earnestly  to  request  of  those  Persons  who  have  the 
Necessaries  of  Life,  that  they  will  freely  supply  the  Inhabitants  at 
least  by  Retail  with  such  Necessaries 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  shall  be 
Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  this  Day  fortnight  being  the  9th.  Day  of 
November  next  10.  OClock  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Tuesday  November  9.  10  O. Clock  Forenoon  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator  and  Stephen  Higginson 
Esqr.  Moderator  Pro  Tern0: 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator  and  M1'.  Hig- 
ginson the  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  being  out  of  Town  the  Inhabitants 
were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes,  for  a  Mod- 
erator Pro  Tern0,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted  it 
appeared  that 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  the  Meeting  Pro  Tem°. 

[347.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  affix  the  prices  of 
European  Merchandize  &c  &c 

Reported  verbally — That  they  had  spent  considerable  time  in 
considering  the  Buisiness  Assigned  them  by  the  Town,  and  found 
it   to    be   impracticable   to    affix  particular  prices  to  the  various 


Boston   Town   Records,  1779.  101 

Articles  of  European  Merchandize,  or  to  do  any  thing  more  than 
the  Late  Convention  at  Concord  had  done  in  that  matter 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Honble.  Thomas  Cushing 
Esqr.  and  James  Gorham  Esq1',  who  were  of  the  Number  of  Com- 
missioners from  the  New  England  Colonies  who  lately  met  at 
Hartford  in  order  to  consider  the  expediency  of  Stating  Prices 
&c — be  desired  to  Attend  this  Meeting,  and  that  a  Committee  be 
now  chosen  to  wait  upon  them  for  that  purpose 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Christopher  Clark  be  a  Committee  to  waite 
upon  those  Gentleman 

Mr.  Cushing  and  Mr.  Gorham  at  the  disire  of  the  Town  attended 
accordingly,  and  at  the  request  of  the  Inhabitants  acquainted 
them  with  the  Proceedings  of  the  Convention  at  Hartford  relative 
to  the  consideration  of  the  expediency  of  stating  prices  &c 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned 
to  Wednesday  the  10  Ins4.  — 3.  O. Clock  P:M:  and  it  was  accord- 
ingly Adjourned 

Wednesday  the  10  Day  of  November  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon  — 
met  according  to  Adjournment 

[348.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions 
for  the  purpose  of  furnishing  the  Town,  Magazine  with  Grain, 
West  India  Goods,  being  called  upon  to  Report  the  Sums  that  had 
been  Subscribed.  Mr.  Walley  one  of  the  Committee  laid  the 
Subscription  Paper  on  the  Table,  which  was  read  and  there 
delivered  back  to  Mr.  Walley 

John  Rowe  Esq1',  and  Mr.  Walley  two  of  the  Committee  chosen 
by  the  Subscriber  for  supplying  in  a  Publick  Store  —  Reported, 
That  there  had  been  receiv'd  into  the  Publick  Store  since  the  6th. 
Day  of  October  last 

906  Bushels  of  Indian  Corn 
207  Ditto  of  Rye 
88  Ditto  of  Indian  Meal 
15  Ditto  of  Rye  Meal 
60  Ditto  of  Wheat 
2  Tons  of  Flour 

That  besides  the  above,  the  Store  Keeper  Col0.  Hurd  has  en- 
gaged upward  of  300  Bushels  of  Indian  Corn  to  be  brought  in 
very  soon  —  that  the  greatest  part  of  the  above  mentioned  Grain 
has  been  delivered  out  again  in  small  parcells  to  at  least  1500 
—  different  Persons  in  the  Town  of  Boston  —  that  had  there  been 
a  sufficiency  of  Salt  and  other  Merchandize  turned  into  the  Pub- 
lick Store  as  was  expected,  the  Granary  might  have  been  filled  with 
Provisions  before  this  some  very  considerable  quantities  of  Grain 
and  Flour,  having  been  brought  into  Town,  and  offered  at  the 
Publick  Store,  which  was  afterwards  purchased  by  other  Per- 
sons who  could  pay  a  Larger  proportion  of  Salt,  Sugar,  Tea,  and 
Rum  than  could  be  supplied  from  the  Publick  Store  [349.]  That 
what  Money  now  remains  in  the  hands  of  the  Store  Keeper  aris- 
ing from  the  Sale  of  Salt  Sugar,  Grain  &c  cannot  be  invested  in 
any  sort  of  Merchandize,  without  giving  50  p  C.  differance  in 
price  —  that  a  Large  quantity  of    Salt,  Sugar  Tea  and  Rum  had 


102  City  Document  No.  80. 

been  sold  from  the  Publick  Store,  besides,  what  has  been  supplied 
the  Country  People  for  Grain,  and  to  others  who  have  brought 
to  this  Market  Beef,  Mutton  &c  &c  as  can  be  attested  by  Mess13. 
Ballard  Hews  &c 

A  Motion  was  made,  "  that  the  sense  of  the  Town  be  taken 
whether  the  Publick  Store  shall  be  kept  open  "  —  and  the  Ques- 
tion being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  the  Committee  appointed  to  procure 
Subscriptions  for  the  Publick  Store,  be  desired  to  call  upon  all 
those  Subscribers  who  have  not  fulfilled  their  engagements,  and  to 
require  that  they  do  it  immediately  —  also 

Voted,  that  they  use  their  endaviours  to  procure  further  Sub- 
scriptions for  the  supply  of  the  said  Store 

Moved  that  this  Meeting  be  desolved 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders,  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Fauuiel  Hall  November  the  24th.  1779 
Three  O. Clock  Afternoon 

[350.]  The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  the  Meeting  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  Sorted  it  appeared  that 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1. 

To  consider  and  determine  upon  Measures  for  procuring  the 
Town  proportion  of  Clothing  for  the  Contenental  Army  Agreeable 
to  a  late  Resolve  of  the  General  Assembly  "  —  was  read  —  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  John  Rowe  Esqr. 

Col0.  Thomas  Crafts 
Jonathan  "Williams  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Eleot  Junr. 
Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
be  a  Committee  for  that  Purpose,  and  to  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment 

The  Petition  of  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  Master  of  the  South  Grammer 
School,  that  he  may  be  allowed  for  his  services  since  August  last, 
and  that  it  may  be  determined  what  Sum  shall  be  granted  for  an 
Assistant  to  said  School  "  —  was  read,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consider  said  Petition 
and  what  may  be  proper  Allowance  for  the  other  School  Masters, 
and  to  Report  at  the  Adjournment 

Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Hzekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Thomas  Crafts  Esq1'. 
Kllis  Gray  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
be  a  Committee  for  that  purpose 

[351.]     The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what 


Boston   Town   Records,   1779.  103 

Measures  shall  be  taken  for  the  repairing  the  Mill  &  Draw  Bridges 
now  became  dangerious,  the  Proprietors  of  the  Mills,  having  de- 
clined doing  it"  — was  read,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Com- 
mittee to  take  this  Article  into  Consideration  &  Report  at  the 
Adjournment,  what  they  Judge  best  to  be  done  thereon 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  10.  OClock  Forenoon 

Tuesday  November  30th.  — - 10.  0. Clock,  Bef orenoon  —  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 
The  Selectmen  a  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town,  to  confer 
with  the  Mill  Owners  relative  to  the  Repairs  of  the  Mill  Bridges 
beg  leave  to  Report 

That  they  have  met  with  the  Proprietors  of  the  Mills,  and  have 
obtained  their  Assurance,  that  those  Bridges  shall  be  immediately 
so  repared  as  to  prevent  danger  to  Carriages  &c.  passing  over 
them,  and  that  as  soon  as  the  Season  will  permit  they  purpose  to 
give  them  a  more  thorough  Repair 

J.  Scollay,  Chairman  p  Order 
The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  it  was  Voted  that  the 
same  be  accepted 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  Mr.  Hunts  Request,  and 
what  may  be  proper  Allowances  for  the  other  School  Masters,  have 
considered  these  [352.]  Matters,  and  Report  as  their  Opinion  — - 
That  there  be  allowed  to  the  several  School  Masters  for  Six 
Months  service  commencing  on  the  first  Day  of  September  last  the 
following  Sums  respectively      Viz1. 

To  Mr.  Hunt £1800 

To  Mr.  Holbrook  -     -------       1500 

To  Mr.  Tileston -     -  -  -       1500 

To  Mr.  Carter        ........       1500 

To  Mr.  Bently 1500 

J.  Lowell  p  Order 
The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  Viz'.  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consider 
&  Report  what  they  Judge  may  be  a  suitable  allowance  for  an 
Usher  for  the  South  Grammar  School 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Committee  appointed  the  24'. 
Ins',  to  consider  proper  allowances  for  the  School  Masters,  be  the 
Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  to  consider  the  Article 
in  the  Warrant  relative  to  procuring  Clothing  for  the  Continental 
Army  Report  as  follows 

That  part  of  the  Clothing  can  be  procured,  but  your  Committee 
after  the  utmost  enquirey  find  it  at  present  impracticable  to  pro- 
cure the  whole,  and  what  can  be  procured  cannot  be  obtained, 
without  the  Cash  being  paid  immediately  and  those  Articles  will 
be  very  dear 

John  Rowe  p  Order 


104  City  Document  No.  80. 

[353.]  The  above  Report  having  been  read,  it  was  Voted, 
that  the  same  be  accepted 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to 
procure  Subscriptions  for  a  Sum  not  exceeding  £30,000  for  the 
purpose  of  procuring  the  Towns  proportion  of  Clothing  for  the 
Continental  Army,  and  the  Town  Treasurer  is  hereby  directed  and 
impowered  to  Give  his  Negotiable  Notes  on  Interest  to  the  re- 
spective Lenders  for  the  Sum  Subscribed  —  also 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Thomas  Crafts 

Mj.  Thomas  Hitchborne 
M  .  Henry  Hill     . 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Kneeland 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

It  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned, 
it  shall  to  Monday  next  3.  O. Clock  P:  M:  being  the  6th.  of 
December 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Meeting  Adjournment  be  published  in  ye. 
News  Papers 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned 

Monday  December  6th.  —  3  O. Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Consider  and  Report  a  suitable 
allowance  to  Mr.  Hunts  present  Assistant  as  also  what  mayebe 
proper  allowauce  for  an  Usher  to  the  South  Gramrner  School 

[354.]  Report  that  Mr.  Hunts  be  allowed  and  paid  out  of 
the  Town  Treasurery  the  Sum  of  four  hundred  &  Seventy  Five 
pounds  in  full  for  an  Assistant  for  the  Nine  Months  past  — 
And  the  future  Allowance  for  the  Usher  of  the  South  Grammer 
School,  be  one  half  of  the  Sum  allowed  the  Master 

Ezkel.  Price  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  Viz1.  Whether  the  Report  shall  be  accepted 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions  for  a  Sum 
not  exceeding  £30,000  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining  the  Towns 
proportion  of  [Clothing]  for  the  Continental  Army — Reported, 
That  they  hacl  as  yet  obtained  but  £500  —  and  should  not  be 
able  to  procure  the  Sum  intended 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to,  to 
Morrow  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Tuesday  the  7th.  Day  of  December  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon,  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  procuring  Clothing  &c  — 
was  again  taken  up  and  considered  whereupon  Voted  that 
Col0.  Thomas  Crafts 
Mr.  Thomas  Hitchborne 
M\  Henry  Hill 


Boston   Town   Kecords,  1780.  105 

[355.]  Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 

Mr.  John  Kneeland 
the  Committee  appointed  at  a  late  Meeting  to  procure  Subscrip- 
tions for  a  Sum  not  exceeding  £30,000  for  the  purpose  of  pro- 
curing the  Towns  proportion  of  Clothing  for  the  Continental  Army, 
be  and  hereby  are  desired  to  proceed  in  that  buissiness,  untill  a 
Sum  sufficient  for  the  purpose  is  Subscribed ;  said  Lenders  to  be 
repaid  the  respective  Sums  by  them  advanced,  by  a  discount  out 
of  their  present  Tax  —  also 

Voted,  that  David  Jeffries  Esq1",  the  Town  Treasurer,  be  and  he 
hereby  is  impower'd  and  directed,  to  give  his  negotiable  Notes  to 
the  respective  Subscribers,  for  the  sum  by  them  so  Advanced  for 
the  purpose  aforesaid  payable  out  of  the  present  Tax 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby 
are  given  to  John  Tudor  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  for 
dispatching  the  Buissness  thereof 

A  Motion  made  and  carried  that  this  Meeting  be  dessolved 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Dissolved 


[356.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants 
of  the  Town  of  Boston  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  1'.  Day 
of  February  Anno  Domini  1780 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read  when  it  appeared  by  the 
Return  made  by  the  Constables  on  said  Warrant,  that  they  had 
neglected  to  Warn  one  of  the  Wards 

A  Motion  was  then  made,  and  it  was  accordingly  Voted,  that 
the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  issue  a  warrant,  on  Thursday  next  3. 
O. Clock  Afternoon,  And  that  the  Constables  be  directed  to  Notify 
the  Inhabitants  without  leaving  printed  Notifications 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston,  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Thursday  the  3d. 
Day  of  February  1780 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw,  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator,  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  was  chosen 

[357.]  General  Hancock  having  desired  to  be  excused  from 
serving  as  Moderator  on  account  of  his  health —  he  was  excused, 
and  the  Votes,  for  another  Person  as  Moderator  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  To  consider  what  Sum  of 
Money  shall  be  raised  to  defray,  the  necessary  Charges  and 
Expences  of  the  Town  "  —  was  read,  and  considered  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  further  Sum  of  Seventy  thousand  Pounds,  in 
addition  to  the  Sums  already  granted,  be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon 
Polls  and  Estates  within  this  Town,  for  the  relief  of  the  Poor, 


106  City  Document  No.   80. 

and  defryiug  other  necessary  Charges  arising  within  this  Town  the 
ensuing  Year 

The  Article  of  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  Of  the  request  of  the  Assess- 
ors, that  the  Town  would  determine  what  they  shall  be  paid  a 
Day  for  their  services  to  this  time."  —  was  read,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Assessors  have  Nine  pounds,  p  Day  for  their 
services  to  this  time 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz':  —  "To  consider  and  determine 
whether  the  Watch  at  New  Boston  shall  be  reistablished  "  — was 
read  and  considered,  whereupon 

[358.]  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  Reinstate  the 
Watch  at  West  Boston 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "  To  consider  the  Request  of 
the  Town  Treasurer 'that  it  may  be  determined,  what  Allowance 
may  be  proper  to  make  him  for  past  services  "  — was  read,  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Thomas  Crafts  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  to  make  Report  as  soon 
as  may  be 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  &  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  6th.  Day  of 
March  1780 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  by  a  unanimous  Vote 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  the  5th.  of  March  last 
to  apply  to  a  proper  Gentleman  to  [359.]  Deliver  an  Oration  the 
5th.  of  March  Ins1,  to  perpetuate  the  memory  of  the  horred  Mas- 
sacre perpetrated  on  the  Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770  by  a 
Party  of  .Soldiers  under  the  Command  of  Cap1.  Thomas  Preston  of 
the  29th.  Regiment — Reported 

That  having  met  together  several  times  for  the  purposes  men- 
tioned in  the  Town  Vote,  they  had  unanimously  made  choice  of 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason  Junr.  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th.  of 
March  Ins1,  who  had  accordingly  accepted  of  that  service 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  made,  the  Question  was 
put —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affir- 
mative 

Upon  a  Motion  the  Town  took  into  consideration,  what  would 
be  the  best  time  to  have  the  Oration  pronounced  ;  as  also  what 
place  would  be  most  suitable  for  the  Purpose  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Oration  be  delivered  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting 
House,  the  Hall  not  being  capacious  enough  to  receive  to  the 
Inhabitants  that  attended  upon  the  occasion 


Boston   Town   Records,  1780.  107 

Voted,  that  Col°.  Tudor 
Col0.  Palfrey 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Jonathan  Mason,  and  acquaint  him 
that  it  is  the  desire  of  the  Town  that  the  Oration  may  be  delivered 
at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  [360.]  House.  12.  O. Clock  this  Day  — 
as  also  to  ask  leave  of  the  Committee  of  said  Church  for  the  use 
of  that  Building 
On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  order  the  several 
Bells  in  the  Town  to  be  tolled  from  one  quarter  of  an  Hour  after 
9.  untill  10.  O.Clock 

Adjourned  to  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  12.  O.Clock 

The  Town  met  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  12.  O.Clock 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  wait  upon  Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Junr.  to  acquaint  him  with  the  Vote  of  the  Town  respecting  the 
time  and  Place  for  the  delivery  of  an  Oration  — Reported 

An  Oration  to  commemorate  the  nor  red  Massacre  of  the  Fifth 
of  March  1770  and  to  impress  upon  the  Minds  of  the  Citizens,  the 
ruinous  tendency  of  standing  Armies,  being  placed  in  Free  and 
Populous  Cities.  &c.  was  delivered  by  Mr.  Jonathan  Mason  Junr. 
to  a  large  and  crowded  Audience  and  received  by  them  with  great 
Applause 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr. 
William  Cooper 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Mr.  Barth°.  Kneeland 
William  Tudor  Esqr. 
[361.]  John  Lowell  Esqr. 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Mr.  Jona- 
than Mason  Junr.  to  thank  him  for  the  spirited  and  elegant  Oration 
delivered  by  Him  at  their  request,  in  commemoration  of  the  horred 
Massacre  perpetrated  on  the  Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March' 1770. 
by  a  Party  of  Soldiers  of  the  29th.  Regiment  under  the  Command 
of  Cap1.  Thomas  Preston,  and  to  request  of  him  a  Copy  thereof 
for  the  Press. 

On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
The  Honble.  John  Pitts  Esq1'. 
The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr. 

John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason  Junr. 
Mr.  Barth0.  Kneeland 
Harbottle  Dorr  Esqr. 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  apply  to  a  proper 
Gentleman,  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th.  of  March  next  to  per- 
petuate the  memory  of  the  horred  Massacre  perpetrated  on  the 
Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770.  by  a  Party  of  Soldiers  of  the 


108  City  Document  No.   80. 

29th.  Regiment,  under  the  Command  of  Cap'.  Thomas  Preston,  and 
to  impress  upon  our  Minds  the  ruinous  tendency  of  Standing  Ar- 
mies being  plac'd  in  Free  and  populous  Cities  in  a  time  of  Peace  ; 
and  the  necessity  of  such  noble  Exertions  in  all  future  times  as 
the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  then  made,  whereby  the  designs  of  the 
Conspirators  against  the  Publick  Peace  may  be  still  frustrated 

A  Collection  made  for  M1.  Monk  who  still  languishes  under  the 
wounds  received  on  5th.  March  1770  of  £329  ..  8..  1. 

[362.]     Then  the  Meeting  was  clessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  Publick  Towu 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  13th.  Day  of 
March  Anno  Domini  —  1780  —  9  O. Clock  Before  Noon 
Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Dr.  Cooper 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  — read 

Sundry  Laws  enjoined  to  be  read  at  this  Meeting  were  accord- 
ingly —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr 
was  chosen  unanimously 

Mr.  William  Cooper  was  chosen  Town  Clerk  for  the  Year 
ensuing,  and  took  the  Oath  of  Office  for  the  faithfull  discharge 
of  his  Duty  which  Oath  was  administred  by  Mr.  Justice  Green- 
leaf 

The  Town  having  Determined  by  a  Vote  to  choose  Seven  Select- 
men, the  Inhabitants  were  [363.]  Then  directed  to  withdraw  and 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  that  Number  ;  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that  only  the  following  Six  Gentlemen 
Viz4. 

John  Scollay  Esqr. 
Cap1.  Gustavus  Fellows 
x  Harbottle  Dorr  Esq'. 

Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser  excused 

were  chosen  Selectmen  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  one  Selectman  and  sorted  it 
appeared  that 

Cap1.  William  Mackay 
was  chosen 

On  a  Motion  made  the  Question  was  put  Viz'.  Whether  the 
Town  will  now  make  choice  of  Nine  Persons,  as  a  Committee  of 
Correspondence,  Inspection  and  Safety  for  the  Year  ensuing  "  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 
Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr  -     -     -     excused 
Mr.  John  Lowell       -     -     -         d°. 
Majr.  Thomas  Melvill  -     -         d°. 


Boston  Town  Records,  1780.  109 

Mr.  Henry  Prentice  -  -  cl°. 
John  Lucas  Esqr.  -  -  -  d°. 
Col0.  Josiah  Waters  -  .  -  d°. 
Cap1.  John  Simkins  -  -  d°. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason  Jur. 
Mr.  Samuel  Brick  -  -  -  d°. 
[364.]  Were  chosen  a  Committee  of  Correspondence  In- 
spection and  Safety  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Mr.  John  Lowell  having  desired  that  he  may  be  excused  from 
serving  on  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  &c —  he  was  accord- 
ingly excused 

Adjourned  to  3  O. Clock  P.M. 

3  O. Clock.  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Adjournment 
The  Votes  being  brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared  that 
Nathaniel  Barber  Esq1',  (excused)  was  chosen  one  of  the  Com- 
mittee of  Correspondence    Inspection   and   Safety  for   the   Year 
ensuing 

Col0.  Waters  one  of  the  Gentleman  chosen  a  Committee  of 
Correspondence  &c  having  desired  to  be  excused  from  serving  on 
that  Committee  he  was  accordingly  excused 

Nathaniel  Barber  Esqr.  another  of  the  Gentlemen  chosen  to 
compose  that  Committee  having  desired  to  be  excused  from  serv- 
ing, for  reasons  given  by  him,  he  was  accordingly  excused 

Mr.  Henry  Prentice  of  the  same  Committee  was  also  by  his 
desire  excused  from  serving  on  the  Committee 

Majr.  Thomas  Melville  another  of  the  Committee  having  desired 
to  be  excused  from  serving,  he  was  accordingly  excused 

[365.]     The  Inhabitants  brought  in    their  Votes  for  twelve 
Wardens,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 
Cap'.  Jonathan  Davis 
Col0.  Josiah  Waters  Jur. 
Mr.  William  Brick  excused 

Capt.  Nathaniel  Curtis 
M1.  Joshua  Farrington 
Mr.  James  Boyce 
Cap'.  John  Newell 
Mr.  William  White 
Mr.  Joseph  Pico 
Alexander  Edwards  Esqr. 
M1.  Jacob  Rhodes 
Mr.  John  Boyls 
were  chosen  Wardens  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Mr.  Samuel  Brick  one  of  the  Gentleman  chosen  a  Committee  of 
Correspondence  &c  having  as  by  his  Letter  on  file,  desired  to  be 
excused  from  serving  on  that  Committee  he  was  accordingly  ex- 
cused 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  sixteen  Fire  Wards, 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 
John  Scollay  Esqr 
William  Cooper 
Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 


110  City  Document  No.  80. 

Edward  Procter  Esqr. 
Cap*.  John  Pulling 
Caleb  Davis  Esq1'. 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Tileston 
[366.]  Andrew  Syms  Esqr. 

Cap4.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Joseph  Webb  Esqr. 
Cap1.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  John  Lowell  ■ 
Majr.  Thomas  Melvill 
Jabez  Hatch  Esqr. 
were  chosen  Fire  "Wards  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Mr.  John  Sweetser  chosen  Selectman  having  desired  that  he 
might  be  excused  from  serving  in  that  Office,  as  it  must  prevent 
his  discharging  the  trust  of  an  Overseer  of  the  Poor :  he  was 
accordingly  excused 

Votes,  for  a  County  Treasurer,  brought  in,  and  being  sealed  up 
in  Town  Meeting  were  delivered  to  Mr.  Constable  Parks  to  be  by 
him  returned  to  the  Court  of  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace  at  their 
next  Meeting 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  one  Selectman  in  the 
room  of  Mr.  John  Sweetser,  who  was  excused  from  serving,  it  ap- 
peared that 

Mr.  Tuttle  Hubbard 
was  chosen  a  Selectman  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  one  Fire  Ward,  and 
upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  Mr.  John  Wintherop  was  chosen 
a  Fire  Ward  for  the  Year  ensuing 

[367.]     The  Inhabitants  brought   in   their  Votes  for   twelve 
Overseers  of  the  Poor,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 
The  Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr. 
Isaac  Smith  Esq1". 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Cap1.  Samuel  Partridge 
Mr.    Samuel  Whitwell 
Mr.  John  White 
Edward  Procter  EsqT. 
William  Powell  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser  Junr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
Joseph  Webb  Esqr. 
were  chose  Overseers  of  the  Poor  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Majr.  Edward  Carnes 
was  chosen  a  Surveyor  of  Hemp,  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Mess™.  John  Bulfineh 
Joseph  Ballard 
Uriah  Norcross 
Benjamin  White 
Joseph  Butler 


Boston  Town  Eecoeds,   1780.  Ill 

Samuel  Fenuo 

Henry  Blaisdel 

John  Champney 

Thomas  Bayley 

Edward  Ranger 

John  Bell 

Abraham  Howard 

James  Rogers 

Phillip  Eckert 
[368.]  Benjamin  Howard 

Abijah  Crane 

Samuel  Dellaway 

Jonathan  Stoddard 

Thomas  Uran 
were  chose  —  Surveyers  of  Boards,  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Mess".  William  Clough 

Joseph  Daniels 

Samuel  Dyer 

Nathaniel  Wales 

William  Brown 
were  chose  Fence  Viewers  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Daniel  Parks 

John  Child excused 

Samuel  Curtis 

Nathan  Green 

Samuel  Bangs 
were  chosen  Sealers  of  Leather  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Mr.  Adam  Colson 
was  chosen  Informer  of  Deer  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Peter  Cotta 

Manassah  Masters 

William  Corbit 

Joshua  Pico 

William  Raynard 

John  Owen 

Samuel  Hayley 

William  Parkman 

Caleb  Hayden 
[369.]  Samuel  Bernard 

William  Freeland 
were  chosen  Cullers  of  Staves  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Samuel  Curtis 

Jonathan  Farnam 

John  Cade 
were  chose  Hogreeves  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Mess".  George  Hamling 

Isaac  Tuckerman 
were  chose  Haywards  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  10.  O'Clock  Before  Noon 

Tuesday  the  14  Day  of  March  10.  O'Clock  Before  Noon  — Met 
according  to  Adjournment 


112  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting, 
having  desired  to  be  excused  from  further  service  as  a  Moderator, 
his  duty  requiring  his  attendance  at  the  General  Court  he  was 
accordingly  excused  for  the  present,  and  the  Inhabitants  were 
directed  to  bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  and  the 
same  being  brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro  Tern0. 

Mr.  Dorr  having  desired  to  be  excused  by  the  Town  from  serv- 
ing on  the  Committee  of  Correspondence-  &c. — he  was  accord- 
ingly excused 

[370.]  The  Selectmen  having  requested  an  augmentation  of 
their  Number  —  the  Question  was  put  —  Viz'.  Whether  the  Vote 
for  choosing  only  seven  Persons  as  Selectmen  the  present  year, 
shall  be  reconsidered,  which  passed  in  the  Affermative 

A  debate  having  arisen,  relative  to  a  time  being  assigned,  for 
the  choice  of  two  Selectmen  —  a  Motion  was  made  "  that  the  Vote 
for  an  Augmentation  of  that  Body  may  be  reconsidered  "  and  the 
Question  being  put  passed  in  the  Affermative 

Cap1.  John  Simkins  chosen  on  the  Committee  of  Correspondence 
&  having  desired  to  be  excused  from  serving  —  he  was  accord- 
ingly excused  — 

John  Lucas  Esqr.  having  desired  to  be  excused  from  serving  on 
the  Committee  of  Correspondence  the  year  ensuing  he  was  accord- 
ingly excused 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  choice  of  a  Committee  of 
Correspondence  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

A  motion  was  made  for  reconsidering  the  Vote  Affixing  the 
number  of  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  at  nine,  and  that 
thirteen  be  chosen  at  the  Adjournment  —  a  debate  arising  on  the 
Motion,  the  Question  was  withdrawn 

The  Inhabitants  having  brought  in  their  Votes,  for  a  Town 
Treasurer  it  appeared  that 

[371.]  David  Jeffries  Esqr. 

was  chosen  Town  Treasurer  for  the  Year  ensuing  unanimously 

On  a  Motion  made  —  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  Collec- 
tors of  Taxes  shall  be  chose  seperate  from  Constables  —  Passed 
in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  choice  of  Constables  be  re- 
ferred over  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

The  Selectmen 
were  chosen  Surveyers  of  High  Ways  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Jonathan  Williams  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser  Jur. 
Mr.  John  White 
were  chosen  Purchasers  of  Grain  for  the  Year  ensuing,  and  they 
are  desired  and  impowered  to  give  all  needfull  directions  to  the 
Keeper  of  the   Granary,  respecting  the  quantity  of  Grain  to  be 
sold,  and  affixing  the  prices  thereof  from  time  to  time  as  occaison 
shall  require  ;  and  the  said  Committee  are  desired  and  directed  to 
cause  all  the  Grain  belonging  to  the  Town  to  be  ground  at  the 
new  Mills  near  the  Mill  Bridge 


Boston   Town   Records,  1780.  113 

John  Tudov  Esqr. 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  White 
Mr.  James  Thwing 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
were  chosen  Survevers  of  Wheat  for  the  Year  ensuing 
[372.]  Mess1'3.  Thomas  Green 

John  Skinner 
were  chose  Assay  Masters  for  the  year  ensuing 

Mess".  Samuel  Clough  for  Ward  N°.  1. 
Cap1.  John  Lambert  -  -  -  2. 
James  Sherman     -     -     -     -      3 

John  Cogswell 4 

John  Dinsdel    -----      5 

John  Welch 6 

William  Peke   -----      7 
David  Barrel    -----      8 

Daniel  Parks 9 

William  Rogers     -     -     -     -    10 

Ebenezer  Hinkley 11 

Charles  Simpson    -     -     -     -    12 
were  chosen  Scavingers  for  the  Year  ensuing 
On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that 

Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 

Mr.  John  Sweetser 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 

be  a  Committee  to  enquire  respecting  the  payments  made  by  the 

Collectors,  into  the  State,  County  and  Town  Treasuries  ;  and  to 

make  Report  as  soon  as  may  be 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  choice  of  Collectors  be  referred 
over  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 
Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  P:  M: 


3  O. Clock  P:  M:  met  according  to  Adjournment 
[373,]     The    following   Persons   were   chose    Clerks   of    the 
Market  for  the  Year  ensuing  Viz*. 

Mess1'8.  Benjamin  Coolidge 

Isaijah  Doan 

Samuel  Fenno 

Henry  Newman 

Thomas  Cashing  Junr. 

Abraham  Enstis 

John  Reed  Junr. 

John  Codman  Jun1". 

John  Jackson 

Thomas  Lovel 

John  Carnes  Junr. 
On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 

Col0.  Josiah  Waters 

Col0.  Thomas  Daws 


114  City  Document  No.  80. 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1'. 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  the  time  and  manner  in  which  the 
Assessors  should  set  for  abatements  of  Taxes ;  and  to  Report  at 
the  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Col0.  Josiah  Waters  Jur. 
Col0.  Thomas  Daws 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1'. 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  take  into  consideration  the  number  of  Assessors 
necesary  to  be  chosen,  and  the  manner  in  which  they   shall  be 
paid 

[374.]  Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to 
lay  before  the  Town  at  the  next  Town  Meeting,  the  Sums  they 
have  drawn  for  on  the  Town  Treasurer  the  last  Year,  distinguish- 
ing the  Several  services 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  make 
full  inquirey  into  the  Affairs  of  the  Town,  respecting  its  Debts, 
and  Credits,  and  Report  the  same,  as  soon  as  may  be,  with  the 
Names  of  the  Persons  to  and  from  whom  the  several  Sums  are 
respectively  due  —  also 

Voted,  that  Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 
Col0.  Josiah  Waters 
Mr.  Herman  Brimmer 
Mr.  Joseph  Pierce 
Ellis  GTray  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 
Ebenezer  Storer  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Brick 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Honble.  Benjamin  Austin  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Andrews 
be  and  they  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Audit  the  Ac- 
counts of  David  Jeffries  Esqr.  Treasurer,  and  also  the  Accompts 
of  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor  ;    and  the  said   Committee  are  im- 
powered  when  they  shall  Audit  said  Accompts  to  allow  such  of 
the  Overseers  as  shall  advance  Money  for  the  Relief  of  the  Poor, 
Interest  on  all  such  Sums  from  the  time  so  Advanced,  untill  they 
shall  have  Audited   [375.]    Said  Accompts,  and  they  are  also 
desired  to  Report  from  time  to  time  a  State  of  the  Treasurey  re* 
specting  its  Debts  and  Credits,  and  on  any  Matter  that  they  may 
think  proper 

The    article    in    the  Warrant   Viz'.  —  To  determin  what    Land 
shall  be  improved  by  the  Town  for  the  raising  of  Vegitables  the 
present  Year,  was  read,  whereupon 
Voted,  that  Cap1.  Job  Prince 

Mr.  Isaac  Pierce 
Mr.  Enoch  Brown 


Boston   Town   Records,  1780.  115 

Mr.  Samuel  Breck 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Mr.  Cornelius  Thayer 
Mr.  Andrew  Oliver 
be    a   Committee    to   consider   this    Article,    and    Report    at   the 
Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  To  consider  what  Measures 
shall  be  taken  relating  to  the  Manure  in  the  Street "  —  was  read, 
whereupon 

Voted,  that  Cap'.  Job  Prince 
Mr.  Isaac  Pierce 
Mr.  Enoch  Brown 
M'.  Samuel  Breck 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
M1'.  Cornelius  Thayer 
Mr.  Andrew  Oliver 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  this  Matter  and  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment 

[376.]  The  Article  relative  to  a  School  house  was  read, 
whereupon  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  to  refer  the  Consideration 
thereof  to  the  Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4.  —  "To  consider  what  further 
provision  is  necessary  for  the  Work  House  "  —  was  read  where- 
upon Voted,  that 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Andrews 
Mr.  Edward  Payne 
William  Cooper 
be  a  Committee    to  consider  this  Matter  and  Report  as  soon  as 
may  be 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1. —  "To  consider  what  is 
further  necessary  to  be  done  relative  to  supplying  the  Families  of 
such  Non  Commissioned  Officers  and  Soldiers  as  have  engaged 
in  the  Continental  Service,  conformable  to  a  late  Act  of  the 
General  Court,  was  read,  whereupon,  it  was  moved  and  Voted, 
that  the  further  consideration  of  this  Matter  be  referred  over  to 
the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz*.  "To  consider  whether  any 
further  Measures  can  be  taken  to  promote  Virtue,  and  good  order 
in  the  Town  "  — was  read,  whereupon —  Voted,  that 
The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
Revd.  Doct1'.  Cooper 
Revd.  Mr.  Lotherop 
Revd.  M1.  Howard 
Mr.  Joseph  Peirce 
[377.]  John  Tudor  Esqr. 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid  to  Report  as  soon  as 
may  be 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  being  the  21  Ins1.  10.  OClock  Fore- 
Noon 


116  City  Document  No.  80. 

March  21st.  10.  O. Clock.     Met  according  to  Adjournment 

John  Tudor  in  the  Chair 
On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Town  come  to  the  choice  of  Con- 
stables at  12  O. Clock 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  Eight  or  Nine  Persons  to  serve  on  a  Committee  of  Cor- 
respondence Inspection  &  Safety  in  the  Room  of  Eight  who  have 
resigned ;  and  the  Votes  having  been  brought  in  and  sorted  it 
appeared  that 

Nathaniel  Barber  Esqr. 
Edward  Procter  Esq1'. 
Cap1.  John  Pulling 
Mr.  Foster  Conday 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
Andrew  Symms  Esq1'. 
Thomas  Mel v  ill  Esqr. 
were   Chosen  a  Committee   of   Correspondence,    Inspection    and 
Safety,  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Col0.  Waters,  having  desired  that  he  might  be  excused  serving 
as  a  Warden  the  Question  was  put  and  passed  in  the  negative 

[378.]  The  Committee  who  were  appointed  to  consider  the 
Number  of  the  Assessors,  and  the  Manner  in  which  they  are  to  be 
paid  —  Report  as  their  Opinion 

That  in  consideration  of  the  impoverished  State  of  the  Town, 
there  should  be  five  Assessors  and  no  more  to  be  paid  out  of 
the  Town  Treasurey 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  Report  be  accepted  —  Passed  in 
the  Negative 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Town  will  make  choice  of  Seven 
Assessors  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Committee  appointed  to  enquire  respecting  the  payments 
made  by  the  Collectors  into  the  State,  County  and  Town  Treas- 
uries—  Report 

That  it  appears  by  the  Treasurers  Books  &c  That  there  is  a 
ballance  due  from  Frances  Shaw  Esqr. 
March  20th.  to  the  State  Treasurer  £5222.19.   7* 

To  the  Town  Treasurer   -----    14798.11.11 


Ballance  due  from  Benjamin  Sumner 

.Jim'.  March  20th.  To  the  State  Treasurer   £1091.5.   4 

To  the  Town  Treasurer 7267.2.10 


20020.11. 6£ 


18358.8.2. 
Ballance  due  from  Josiah  Torry  March  20th. 
To  the  State  Treasurer     ------    4963.7  — 

To  the  Town  Treasurer    -----      -    3055.4.10 


8018.11.10 
[379.]  46397. 11. 6£ 


Boston   Town   Eecords,  1780.  117 

Ballance  due  from  Mr.  James  Thompson 
March  20th. 

To  State  Treasurer £9934.14.7. 

To  the  Town  Treasurer 5074.   6.2 


15009.0.9. 

Due  from  Mr.  Benjamin  Cud  worth  61406.12.3^ 

To  Town  Treasurer £1180.5.5. 

Due   from  Mr.  Benjamin    Cudworth  to 

-  -     the  State  Treasury  on  Execution 

-  -     returned  not  satisfied  and  one  re- 

-  -     turned  satisfied  in  part  for  1778 

-  -     Tax 3647.16  — 

The  Committee  to  consider  the  time  and  manner  in  which  the 
Assessors  shall  set  for  Abatements  Reported 

That  the  Assessors  shall  sit  one  Month  after  the  essuing  each 
Tax  for  the  Abatements  thereon  " 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  Viz4.  —  Whether  the  Report  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Voted,  that  the  Assessors  be  and  hereby  are  impowered  and 
directed  to  sit  for  such  Abatements  of  Taxes,  as  they  shall  Judge 
reasonable,  on  every  Day  of  the  Month  following  the  delivery  of 
the  Tax  Books  to  the  Collectors,  Lords  Days  excepted,  and  no 
longer,  saving  that  they  be  allowed  to  sit  the  two  last  Weeks  in 
November  for  the  Abatement  of  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons  as  had 
not  an  oppertunity  of  applying  in  the  above  Limitted  time  by 
reason  of  their  being  out  of  the  State  ;  at  which  time  they  are  also 
allowed  and  impowered  to  Abate  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons  as 
may  have  died  Insolvent  before  the  last  Day  of  November 

[380.]     The  Town  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Seven  Assess- 
ors, and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 
Deacon  Jonathan  Brown 
Gyles  Harris  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Dyer 
Cap'.  John  Pulling 
Mr.  William  Lowder 
Mr.  John  R.  Sigorney 
Mr.  Moses  May 
were  chose  Assessors  for  the  Year  ensuing 

On  a  Motion,  Voted  to  reconsider  the  Vote  for  the  choice  of  Con- 
stables at  12.  O. Clock  Afternoon  be  the  time  Assigned  for  that 
purpose 

Moved,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  examine  the  Collect- 
ors Books  and  make  Report  as  soon  as  may  be  with  respect  to  the 
Sums  they  have  Collected  and  paid  into  the  several  Treasuries  — 
and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Afferma- 
tive —  also 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 


118  City  Document  No.  80. 

be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  and  said  Committee  are 
also  directed  to  make  particular  inquiry  respecting  the  Moneys  re- 
ceived, and  paid  into  the  several  Treasuries  by  Mr.  Benjamin  Cud- 
worth  a  late  Collector 

Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock  P:  M: 

[381.]     3.  O  Clock  P:  M:   Met  according  to  Adjournment 
Mr.  Isaac  Pierce  one  of  the  Committee  appointed  to  consider 
what  Laud  shall  be  improved  by  the  Town  the  present  Year  for 
the  raising  of  Vegitables  Reported  verbally 

That  the  Committee  are  of*  opinion  it  will  be  for  the  Interest  of 
the  Town  again  to  improve  the  Land  at  West  Boston  for  raising 
Vegitables  and  as  much  more  as  can  be  obtained 

The  Town  having  considered  of  the  foregoing  Report,  it  was 
Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  uow  appointed  to  improve  the  Lands 
at  West  Boston  for  the  raising  of  Vegitables,  which  were  improved 
for  that  purpose  the  last  Year,  and  so  much  more  Land  as  can  be 
obtained  on  the  same  conditions  with  the  last,  as  the  Committee 
may  Judge  to  be  for  the  interest  and  benefit  of  the  Town  —  and 
that  the  Committee  consist  of  Seven  Persons 
Voted,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Brick 
Mr.  Isaack  Pierce 
Mr.  Daniel  Bell 
Mr.  Benjamin  Edes 
Mr.  William  Hoskins 
Mr.  William  Frobisher 
Cap1.  Nathanel  Patten 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  there  be  remitted  out  of  the 
Fine  laid  upon  such  Persons  as  shall  be  chose  into  the  Office  of 
Constables  the  present  Year  and  declines  serving  the  Sum  of 
Eighty  Pounds 

[382.]  The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Twelve 
Constables,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 

Messrs.  John  Bryant  excused 

Sampson   [Read]  not  sworn 

Stephen  Cook  excused 

Edward  Wentworth  not  sworn 

Daniel  Parks 
Jonathan  Houghton    -     -  excused 

David  Brewer d°. 

Pool  Spear 

Jonah  Knap  -  -  -  excused 
William  Stagpole  -  -  -  -  d°. 
Benjamin  Brown  Ju'.  -  -  -  d'\ 
Francis  Biggelow  ...  d°. 
were  chosen 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  one  Shilling  on  the  Pound,  be  and 
hereby  is  allowed  to  the  Persons  who  shall  be  chose  Collectors  of 
Taxes  the  Year  ensuing,  for  all  such  Sums  as  they  shall  Collect ; 
provided  they  pay  the  same  into  the  several  Treasuries  within 
four  Mouths,  and  nine    Pence  on  the  Pound    on    all  such  other 


Boston   Town   Eecords,  1780.  119 

Sums  as  they  shall  have  so  paid  into  the  Treasury  on  or  before 
the  second  Monday  in  March  1781  which  Premium  as  above 
expressed  appears  to  be  Just  and  equitable  and  an  ample  allow- 
ance to  the  Collectors  to  encourage  them  to  discharge  their  Duty 
with  diligence  and  fidelity ;  provided  also  that  each  of  said 
Collectors  give  Bond  with  sufficient  Sureties  to  the  Satisfaction  of 
the  Selectmen  for  the  faithfull  discharge  of  their  duty  in  said 
Office  and  Compyling  with  this  Vote 

[383.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  the  request  of  the 
Town  Treasurer  and  determin  what  allowances  ought  to  be  made 
for  past  services  Report 

That  they  find  the  Treasurer,  has  not  been  paid  for  his  Services 
in  the  year  1775  and  1778.  and  for  the  Last  Six  Months  — they 
are  of  Opinion  that  eighty  Pounds  was  due  to  him  at  the  end 
of  the  Year  1775  —  for  his  services  the  preceeding  Year  —  that 
the  allowance  from  the  Town  supposing  Money  had  been  Good  in 
1778  as  formerly  would  probably  have  been  £180  —  and  if  the 
same  had  been  settled  at  the  end  of  that  Year  the  allowance  for 
depreciation  ought  to  have  been  settled  at  the  same  rate  with  the 
allowances  made  to  other  Officers  of  the  Town  but  as  by  some 
accident  it  was  not  done,  the  Committee  are  at  a  loss,  and  submit 
to  the  consideration  of  the  Town  how  much  the  Treasurer  ought  to 
receive  instead  of  the  Sum  of  two  hundred  and  ten  Pounds  due 
to  him  for  his  said  Services  1775.  and  1778  —  they  are  of  Opinion 
that  he  ought  to  receive  for  his  services  for  Six  Months  ending 
the  first  day  of  this  Month  —  the  Sum  of  nineteen  hundred  &  fifty 
Pounds 

J  Lowell  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  —  Viz'.  Whether  this  Report  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Committee  appointed  "to  consider  what  further  provision 
is  necessary  for  the  Work  House" — Report  it  as  their  Opinion, 
that  it  is  expedient  to  open  the  Work  House  under  the  direction 
of  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor  —  and  that  the  said  Overseers  be  re- 
quested [384.]  To  lay  before  the  Town  an  Estimate  of  the  Sum 
necessary  for  the  purpose,  that  the  Town  may  make  a  Grant  ac- 
cordingly 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  Viz4.  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Petition  be  preferred  by  ye.  Town 
to  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  now  setting,  that  some 
effectual  Measures  may  be  taken  for  the  Protection  of  the  Sea 
Coasts 

Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  to  reconsider  the  Vote  passed  relative  to 
raising  Vegitables  so  far,  as  that  the  Seven  Gentelmen  chose  a 
Committee  be  excused  from  serving,  and  that  two  be  now  chosen 


120  City  Document  No.  80. 

Voted,  that  Cap1.  Job  Prince  • 

Mr.  Isaac  Pierce 
be  a  Committee  instead  of  the  seven  chosen  to  carry  the  proceed- 
ing Vote  into  execution 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz1,  to  consider  what  is  necessary 
to  be  done  to  accomodate  the  Youth  of  the  South  part  of  the 
Town  with  a  School  House  was  read  and  Considered,  whereupon 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Josiah  Waters 
Deacon  John  Preston 
[385.]  Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 

Mr.  Ebenezer  Don- 
Deacon  Samuel  Dyer 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  further  on  this  Matter  and  Request  as 
soon  as  may  be 

The  Committee  to  draught  a  Petition  to  the  General  Assembly 
relative  to  the  Protection  of  the  Sea  Coast  —  Reported  a  draught, 
and  after  some  debate  a  Motion  was  made  and  carried,  that  the 
Report  be  recomitted 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Fry  day  next  3. 
O.ClockPrM 


Tuesday  March  24  :  P:  M:    Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  steps  it  is  necessary 
for  the  Town  to  take  relative  to  the  Manure  in  the  Streets  —  Re- 
ported that  it  would  be  for  the  Advantage  of  the  Town,  to  ap- 
point a  Committee  to  imploy  Persons  to  rake  up  and  collect  all  the 
Manure  vand  that  said  Committee  be  directed  to  dispose  of  it  to 
the  best  advantage  keeping  an  account  of  all  the  Charges  arising, 
and  to  account  with  the  'Selectmen  for  the  same  on  or  before  the 
last  of  March  1781,  giving  the  preferrence  to  the  Inhabitants  of 
this  Town  in  the  disposal  thereof 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  Viz1. — Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Negative 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  is  necessary  to  be 
done  for  accomodation  of  the  Youth  of  the  South  part  of  the 
Town  with  a  School  house  —  Reported,  and  the  same  having  been 
read,  after  some  debate  it  was 

[386.]     Voted,  that  said  Report  be  Recommitted 

The  Overseers  of  the  Poor  who  were  directed  to  Report  what 
Sum  would  be  necessary  for  the  Work  House,  Reported  as  their 
Opinion  that  a  Sum  not  less  than  Twenty  Thousand  Pounds  would 
be  Necessary  to  carry  the  design  into  effect 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  considered,  it  was  Voted, 
that  the  same  be  accepted,  and  that  the  Sum  of  Twenty  Thousand 
Pounds  mentioned  in  said  Report  be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon  Polls 
and  Estates  within  this  Town,  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

.Mr.  Bigelow,  Mr.  Cook,  Mr.  Stagpoole  — Col".  Brewer,  Mr. 
Knap,  Mr.  Houghton,  Mr.  Bryant  —  Mr.  Brown,  all  of  whom  had 
been  chose  Constables  for  the  Year  ensuing,  having  desired 
the  Town  to   excuse    them   from    serving  in  that  Office  for  rea- 


Boston  Town   Records,  1780. 


121 


sous   by   them   respectively  offered  —  they  were,    each    of    them 
excused  by  the  Town 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  into  the  State  of  the  ac- 
counts of  the  severall  Collectors  of  Taxes,  have  attended  that 
service  and  Report  as  follows 

That   on  examining  M1.   Sumners  Accounts  find   that   he    has 
paid  into  the  several  Treasuries  the  •five  first  Taxes  committed  to 
him  to  Collect  amounting  to     -     -     £45333  -1-7 
for  which  he  has  their  Receipts 
Out  of  which  there  should  be  to  his  Cr. 

for  Abatements £1827  14  10 

for  Commissions       -     -  -     -      2444  14     6 


£4272     9     4 


bro1.  over 
[387.]     Since  which  he  has  paid  on  6  Tax 

which  was  £40053  14 

On  which  the  Commissions,  to  be  allowed 
him  is  the  balance  thereof  due  to  all  the 
Treasuries  and  on  the  6th.  Tax  only  will  be    - 


£4272 

24558 

1227 

9994 


9 
13 
18 
12 


£40053  14  — 
That  there  Appears  to  be  outstanding 

-     -     -      by  his  Books  on  the  first  five  Tax's    £1015  2  — 

On  the  6  4i  Tax "-      12421  4  8 


£13436  6  8  of 
which  it  appears  to  the  Satisfaction  of  the  Committee  that  there 
are  several  very  considerable  Sums  which  it  was  not  in  his  power 
to  collect  on  Account  of  peculiar  circumstances  attending  them  — 
On  examination  of  Mr.  Thompsons  Account  it  appears  that  the 
Severel  Taxes  committed  to  him  to  Collect  being  the  5th.  &  6th. 
only  amounted  to £65852  13  5 


Of  which  he  has  paid  into  the  Sev- 
eral Treasuries  the  Sum  of  -     - 
The  Commissions  on  which  are  - 
there  remains   a   ballance  due  ) 
from  him I 


£50852  13  4 
2540  12   1 

12459     7  8 


£65852  13  4 
To  pay  which  Balance  there  are  in  Debts  outstand- 
ing the  Sum  of £9319     6  6 

In  which  Mr.  Thompson  has  recd.  within  a  few    ) 

Days |  3573     6  - 

And  a  Receipt  of  the  Assessors  for    -----  355  10  - 

Among  the  Debts  there  are  four  only  amount5,  in  the  whole  to  the 
sum  of  £4704  —  which  he  has  not  been  able  to  Collect 

On  examination  of  Mr.  Shaws  Acco1.  that  he  stands  indebted  to 
the  State  only  the  Sum  of  £5223  7  2 

[388.]     Has  in  outstanding  debts  £11481  9  — 


rer  - 

-  - 

- 

£10131  6  11 
3055 

P37fi1 

13186  6  11 

474 

2 

6 

4235 

8951, 

2 
4 

6 
5 

122  City  Document  No.   80. 

On  examining  Mr.  Torreys  Acco4.  it  appears  tbat 

there  is  due  to  the  State  Treasurer  - 
To  the  Town  Treasurer    -     - 


That  there  is  due  to  him  say  for 

Commissions £3761 

Abatements 


Ballance  due  from  him      -     - 

15186     6  11 
To  pay  which  Ballance  there  are  in  outstanding 

Debts  the  sum  of     - 14371  18     1 

of  which  there  are  several  Sums  that  Mr.  Torrey  cannot  Collect 
on  Account  of  particular  Circumstances 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Four  Collectors  of 
Taxes  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 
Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 
Mr.  Benjamin  Sumner  Jur. 
Mr.  John  Torrey 
Mr.  James  Thompson 
were  chose  Collectors  for  the  year 

The  Committee  to  draught  a  Petition  to  the  General  Court,  Re- 
ported verbally,  that  they  had  received   such  information  as  in 
their  opinion  makes  a  Petition  to  be  now  needless 
Which  Report  being  put 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

[389.]  Adjourned  to  Tuesday  the  4th.  Day  of  April  next  3. 
O:  Clock  P:  M: 

Tuesday  April  4th.  —  1 780  —  3.  O:  Clock  P:  M:  met  according 
to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "  To  consider  whether  any 
thing  can  be  done  for  the  Relief  of  the  Inhabitants  greatly  dis- 
tressed by  the  Exorbitant  Prices  of  the  Necessaries  of  Life  "  — 
was  read,  and  after  some  consideration  had  thereon,  it  was  moved 
that  the  further  consideration  of  this  Article  be  referred  over  to 
the  next  Town  Meeting  —  and  the  Question  being  accordingly 
put  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Mr.  William  Brick  having  in  writing  requested  that  he  might  be 
excused  from  serving  as  a  Warden  into  which  Office  he  had  been 
chosen  —  he  was  accordingly  excused  by  the  Town 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Warden  in  the 
room  of  Mr.  Brick,  and  the  same  being  Sorted  it  appeared  that 

Mr.  Bossinger  Foster 
was  chosen  a  Warden  for  the  ensuing  Year 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  the  Accounts  of  Mr.  Ben- 
jamin Cudworth  a  late  Collector  of  Taxes  have  attended  that 
Service  and  beg  leave  to  Report 


Boston   Town   Records,   1780.  123 

That  it  appears    that  the   sum    committed    to  him   to   Collect 
Amounts  by  the  Assessors  Books  to  £23132.7.7 

[390.]     That  he  has  paid  into   the   several  Treasuries  as  by 
his  Receipts  for  the  same  £17766.13.4 
That  the  Abatements  Amount 
to     -------     -    £1060  6  2 

His  Commissions  to      -     -       1000 


That  the  ballance  due  from  him 
will  therefore  Amount  to 


2060  16  2 
3305    7  1 


£23.132.7.7 
To  pay  which  ballance  of  three  thousand  three  hundred  and  five 
Pounds  seven  Shillings  and  one  penny,  he  has  in  out  standing 
Debts,  about  One  thousand  one  hundred  Pounds,  a  very  incon- 
siderable part  of  which  only  there  is  in  the  Opinion  of  the  Com- 
mittee any  the  least  probability  of  his  ever  Collecting 

Voted  that  the  consideration  of  School  Masters  Salaries  and 
Grants  be  referred  over  to  May  Meeting 

On  a  Motion  made  —  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  chosen 
to  take  into  consideration  aod   Report  as   soon  as  may  be  what 
they  shall  Judge  to  be  adequate  Grants  to  the  Schoolmasters 
Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Ebenezer  Storer  Esqr. 
Nathan1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

It  not  appearing  to  this  Town  that   by    a  Certificate  [391.] 
From  a  Justice  that  any  of  the  Constables  chose  at  this  Meeting 
had  been  sworn  into  that  Office  within  the  time  prescribed  by  Law, 
though   Notifications  had   been   issued    for  that  purpose  by  the 
Town  Clerk  —  The  Inhabitants  were  therefore  directed  to  with- 
draw and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  twelve  Constables,  and  the  same 
having  been  brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared,  that  the  following 
Persons  were  chose  Constables  for  the  Year  ensuing  —  Viz1. 
Mess13.  Benjamin  Edes 
Adam  Colson 
John  Fullerton 
Thomas  Green 
Robert  Wyer 
John  Kennedy 
Pool  Spear 
John  Jepson 
Henry  Davidson 
Daniel  Parks 
Benjamin  Homans 
Benjamin  White  excused 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  is  necessary  to  be 
done  for  the  accommodation  of  the  youth  of  the  South  part  of  the 
Town  with  a  School  House  —  Reported  verbally  —  That  upon 
enquirey  they  had  found  that  the  Widow  Holbrook  had  a  Room 
which  would  accomodate  about  Seventy  or  Eighty  Scholars,  and 


124  City  Document  No.   80. 

that  the}*  were  of  Opinion  that  if  this  Room  could  be  obtained  it 
would  be  best  to  hire  it  for  a  School 

Voted,  that  this  Report  be  accepted,  and  that  the  Selectmen  be 
directed  to  agree  with  Mrs.  Hoi  brook  for  said  Room  as  they  shall 
Judge  for  the  Interest  of  the  Town 

[392.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "  To  consider  what 
is  further  necessary  to  be  done  relative  to  supplying  the  Families 
of  such  Non  Commissioned  Officers,  and  Soldiers  as  have  engaged 
in  the  Continental  Service,  conformable  to  a  late  Act  of  the  Gen- 
eral Court  —  was  read  and  considered,  whereupon  it  was  moved 
and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  take  this  matter 
into  consideration  and  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 
—  Also 

Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Sweetser 

Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Jonathan  Williams  Esq1*, 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  being  the  eleventh  Da}7  of  April 
Inst4:  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

Tuesday  the  Eleventh  Day  of  April  3.  O. Clock  in  the  After- 
noon, Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  relative  to  supplying  the  Families  of  such  Non 
Commissioned  Officers  and  Soldiers,  as  have  engaged  in  the  Con- 
tinental Service,  and  now  reside  in  this  Town,  not  being  able  to 
Report,  one  of  the  Committee  informed  that  the  Honble.  Thomas 
Cushing  Esqr.  can  put  the  Town  into  the  method  of  drawing  fur- 
ther Provisions 

The  consideration  of  the  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to 
the  above  mentioned  Families,  was  again  brought  on  and  after 
some  debate,  it  was  moved  and 

[393.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Twenty  Thousand  Pounds  be 
raised  by  a  Tax  upon  Polls  and  Estates  within  this  Town  to  be 
carried  into  the  Treasury,  and  appropriated  for  the  supply  of  the 
Families  of  the  Non  Commissioned  Officers  and  Soldiers  of  the 
Continental  Army,  who  reside  in  this  Town,  the  same  to  be  paid 
out  by  the  Town  Treasurer,  unto  Cap4.  John  Simkins  the  ■Com- 
missary as  there  may  be  occasion,  he  to  be  accountable  for  the 
same 

Mr.  Sampson  Read  chosen  one  of  the  Constables  for  the  present 
year,  not  having  given  in  a  Certificate  of  his  being  sworn  before  at 
the  last  Adjournment,  another  was  then  chosen  in  his  Room  ;  not- 
withstanding which  the  said  Read  appeared  this  afternoon  in 
Meeting  and  produced  a  Certificate  from  Mr.  Justice  Avery  that 
he  had  administred  to  him  the  Oath  of  a  Constable,  but  he  was 
acquainted  by  the  Moderator,  that  it  was  the  sense  of  the  Town, 
that  he  could  not  be  considered  as  a  legal  Constable 

Voted  that  all  Matters  and  things,  which  remain,  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  General  Town  Meeting  in  May 
Next  then  to  be  considered,  and  acted  upon 

Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given  to 


Boston   Town   Eecokds,  1780.  125 

John  Tudor  Esq1'.  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0,  for  his  good  Servicies  in 
dispatching  the  Buissiness  of  the  Meeting 
Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


[394.]  At  a  legal  Meeting  of -the  Male  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  being  twenty  one  years  of  age  and  upwards,  at 
Faneuil  Hall  on  Wednesday  the  3  Day  of  May  Anno  Domini  1780 
—  10.  0. Clock  Forenoon 

The  Meeting  was  opened  with  Prayer  by  the  Revd.  Dr.  Cooper 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  by  the  Selectmen  to  withdraw  and 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  that  Meeting,  and  the  same 
having  been  brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esq1",  was  chosen 

The  Address  of  the  Convention  for  framing  a  new  Constitution 
of  Government  for  the  State  of  Massachusetts  Bay  to  tbeir  Con- 
stituents ;  together  with  a  Constitution  or  Fram  of  Goverment. 
agreed  upon  by  the  Delagates  of  the  People  of  this  State  in  Con- 
vention begun  and  held  at  Cambridge  on  the  first  of  September 
1779  and  submitted  to  the  Revision  of  their  Constituents  —  were 
distinctly  read  to  the  Inhabitants  by  the  Moderator  excepting  the 
Clause  relative  to  Oaths  &c.  which  was  omitted,  in  consequence  of 
a  Motion  for  that  purpose 

On  a  Motion.  Voted,  that  the  Resolves  of  the  Convention  passed 
the  second  of  May  1780  as  in  Page  53  [395.]  Shall  be  the  first 
matter  to  be  taken  into  consideration  and  acted  upon  at  the 
Adjournment 

It  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  signify  to  the 
Delagates  who  Represent  this  Town  in  the  Convention  ;  that  their 
attendance  is  requested  during  this  Meeting 

Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  O'Clock  afternoon  met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  6th.  Chapter  relative  to  Oaths  and  Subscrip- 
tions was  read 

The  Resolve  of  the  Convention  passed  the  Second  March  1780 
as  Page  53  —  was  again  read,  and  after  debate  had  thereon  it  was 
moved  and  Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of  this  Matter  be 
postponed  untill  it  is  determined  to  what  Place  this  Meeting  shall 
be  Adjourned 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  pro- 
vide a  place  for  the  Town  to  Meet  at,  when  the  Meeting  shall  be 
Adjourned 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Jeremiah  Belknap 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

[396.]  Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  preceeding  Vote  for  tak- 
ing up  the  Resolves  of  the  Convention  in  the  first  place  be  recon- 
sidered, and  that  the  Article  relative  to  Oaths  aud  Subscriptions 
be  now  considered 


126  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Town  however  proceeded  to  the  consideration  of  the  Fram 
of  Goverment  as  Page  15  —  and  after  debate  had  thereon  a 
Motion  was  made,  and  passed,  that  when  this  Meeting  shall  be 
Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  the  old  Brick  Meeting  house  the  Place 
provided  for  the  Town  by  the  Committee  chosen  in  the  Forenoon 

It  was  then  moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  2d.  Chapter  relative  to 
the  Executive  Power  Section  the  first  —  be  now  taken  up,  a  former 
Vote,  notwithstanding 

The  forementioned  Article,  having  been  some  time  under  con- 
sideration it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Ad- 
journed, to  to  Morrow  Afternoon.  3  OlClock,  then  to  Meet  at  the 
old  Brick  Meeting  House 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Thursday  the  4th.  day  of  May  1780.  3.  O. Clock  P:  M:  Met  Ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

The  Town  having  Voted  to  proceed  to  the  consideration  of  the 
Fram  of  Goverment  Paragraph  by  Paragraph 

[397.]  The  consideration  of  the  first  Chapter  the  Legislative 
Poioer,  Section  1st.  The  General  Court  Page  15  was  taken  up  Arti- 
cle by  Article  and  the  whole  of  said  Section  accepted,  Nem.  Cond. 

The  consideration  of  Section  2d.  Page  18  —  Senate  —  was  taken 
up  Article  by  Article,  and  after  considerable  Debate  was  accepted 
Nem:  Cond:  excepting  the  3d  Article,  to  which  there  was  one  Dis- 
sentient 

The  consideration  of  Section  3d.  Page  24  — House  of  Represent- 
atives was  taken  up  Article  by  Article,  &  the  whole  Accepted 
Nem0.  Con 

The  consideration  of  the  2d.  Chapter  Viz'.  Executive  Power,  Sec- 
tion 3d.  Page  27 —  Governor  was  taken  up  Article  by  Article,  and 
the  whole  of  said  Section  accepted  by  the  Town  Neme.  Con. 

The  consideration  of  the  2d.  Section  Page  35  —  Lieutenant  Gov- 
ernor, was  taken  up  Article  by  Article,  and  the  whole  of  said 
Section  passed  —  Nem  Con0. 

The  consideration  of  the  3d.  Section  Page  36  —  Viz'.  Council 
and  the  Manner  of  settling  Elections  by  the  Legislature  was 
taken  up,  Article  by  Article  —  and  the  whole  of  said  Section 
passed  Nem  Cond. 

The  consideration  of  the  4th  Section  Page  38  —  Viz'.  —  Secre- 
tary, Treasurer,  Commissary  &c  was  taken  up  Article  by  Article, 
and  the  whole  of  said  Section  passed  Neme.  Cond.  —  also 

[398.]  Voted,  that  it  be  and  hereby  is  Recommended  to  the 
Delagates  who  Represent  this  Town  in  the  Convention,  that  a 
Clause  be  inserted  under  the  foregoing  Section  for  limiting  the 
Time  of  Service  of  the  Commissary  General,  in  like  manner  as  the 
Time  of  Service  of  the  Treasurer  &  Receiver  General  has  been 
Limited 

The  consideration  of  the  3d.  Chapter  —  Viz1.  Judiciary  Power 
as  Page  39  —  was  taken  up  Article  by  Article  —  and  the  whole  of 
the  Chapter  accepted  N  C 

The  consideration  of  the  4th.  Chapter  Viz'.  Page  40  —  Viz'. 
Delagates  to  Congress,  was  taken  up  and  accepted  Neme.  Cond. 


Boston   Town   Records,   1780.  127 

The  consideration  of  the  5th  Chapter  Page  41  —  Viz'.  —  The  Uni- 
versity at  Cambridge,  and  Encouragement  of  Literature  &c  Section 
the  1*.  was  taken  up  Article  by  Article,  and  the  whole  of  said 
Section  Accepted  Nem  Con 

The  consideration  of  the  2d  Section  in  Chapter  5  Page  43  Vizk. 
—  The  encouragement  of  Literature  was  taken  up,  and  accepted 
Neme.  Contd. 

The  consideration  of  the  6th.  Chapter  Page  44  —  Viz1.  Oaths 
and  Subscriptions,  Incompatability  of  and  exclusion  from  Offices  ; 
Pecuniary  Qualifications  ;  of  Laws.  Commissions,  Writes  ;  Con- 
firmations of  Laws ;  Habeas  Corpus ;  The  Enacting  Continuance 
of  Officers  1  Provision  for  a  Future  Revisal  of  the  Constitution 
&c  —  was  taken  up  Article  by  Article  and  all  accepted  N.  C  sav- 
ing the  7th.  Article  Page  49  —  relative  to  the  [399.]  Write  of 
Habeas  Corpus,  and  upon  a  Motion 

Voted  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  the  same  and  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  the  Preamble  to 
the  Declaration  of  Rights,  be  postponed  and  that  the  3d.  Article 
in  said  Declarating  Preamble  thereto  excepted  shall  be  the  last 
Article  to  be  acted  upon  at  this  Meeting — 'also 

Voted,  that  the  Declaration  of  Rights  be  now  considered 

The  Several  Articles  in  the  Declaration  of  Rights  excepting  as 
aforesaid  was  Accordingly  taken  up  and  being  duly  considered, 
were  excepted,  Article  by  Article  Nem  Con  Saving  the  16  Article, 
and  on  a  Motion  Made 

Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  the  propriety  of  Adding  a  Clause  to 
said  Article  for  Securing  freedom  of  Speach 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall 
be  to  Monday  Morning  9  O. Clock 

[400.]  On  a  Motion  made  Voted  that  it  be  recommended  to 
the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town  to  attend  the  Town  Meeting  at  the 
Adjournment  next  Monday  Morning  9.  O. Clock,  and  as  matters 
of  the  greatest  consequence,  respecting  the  Establishment  of  a 
Constitution  of  Civil  Goverment  for  this  State,  Will  then  be 
Acted  .upon,  it  is  most  earnestly  recommended  that  all  Buissiness 
be  suspended  by  the  shutting  up  of  Stores,  Shops  &c  that  there 
may  be  a  full  Attendance,  and  it  is  further 

Voted,  that  the  Ministers  of  the  Gospel  be  requested  to  remind 
their  respective  Congregations  the  next  Lords  day,  of  this  Adjourn- 
ment, and  of  the  importance  of  universally  withdrawing  them 
selves  for  a  few  hours  from  their  ordinary  Engagements,  and 
devoting  their  Attention  to  a  Matter  so  deeply  interesting  to 
themselves  and  their  Posterity 

Voted,  that  a  Copy  of  this  Vote  be  sent  to  the  Ministers  of 
every  Denomination 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned  to  next  Monday  9.  O. Clock 


128  City  Document  No.  80. 

Monday  the  8,h.  Day  of  May.  9.  O. Clock  Forenoon  —  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  left  Quarter  of  the  upper  Galary  was  Assigned  by  the 
Moderator  for  Strangers,  and  Persons  under  twenty  One  years 
of  Age 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  twelve  Persons  be  appointed 
Monitors  and  Cap1.  Newell 

[401.]  Col0.  Procter 

Cap'.  Parkman 

James  Brewer 

John  Lowel 

John  Lucas 

John  R.  Sigorney 

Cap'.  John  Simpkins 

Adam  Colson 

Dr.  Nath1.  Noyes 

Mr.  Conent 

Cap'.  Stanton 
were  accordingly  chosen 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Consider  and  Report  relative  to  the 
Seventh  and  Sixteenth  Articles,  of  the  Bill  of  Rights  Report  — 
That  instead  of  the  16th.  Article  of  the  Bill  of  Rights,  The  same 
should  Stand  as  follows  —  Viz'.  The  Liberty  of  Speach  and  of  the 
Press  with  respect  to  publick  men  and  their  Publick  Conduct  and 
Publick  Measures,  is  essential  to  the  Security  of  Freedom  in  a 
State  and  shall  not  therefore  be  restrained  in  their  Common 
Wealth  " 

That  instead  of  the  7th.  Article  of  the  6th.  Chapter  it  should 
Stand  as  follows  —  Viz'. —  "The  Priviledge  &  Benefit  ol  the 
Write  of  Habeas  Corpus  shall  be  enjoyed  in  this  Common 
Wealth,  in  the  most  free,  easey,  cheap,  expeditious  and  ample 
manner  —  and  shall  not  be  suspended  except  in  time  of  War, 
Invasion  or  a  Time  of  Rebellion  declared  by  the  Legislature  to 
exist,  nor  for  a  longer  Time  than  Six  Months 

[402.]     The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered 

—  the  Question  was  put.  Viz'.  Whether  the  Same,  shall  be  ac- 
cepted — -Passed  in  the  Affermative  Neme.  Cond.  —  It  was  Also 

Voted,  Neme.  Cond.  That  the  Delegates  who  Represent  this 
Town  in  the  Convention  be  and  hereby  are  Instructed  to  move  to 
the  Convention  at  their  Next  Meeting  that  these  alterations  may 
be  come  into 

The  Article  the  7.  relative  to  the  Execluesive  Power  as  Page  31. 
being  under  consideration  it  was  moved  &  Voted, 

That  the  Delegates  who  Represent  this  Town  in  Convention  be 
and  hereby  are  Instructed  to  Move  to  the  Convention  that  the 
following  Clauses  may  be  Added  to  the  said  7th.  Article  Viz'. — 
Or  for  the  Defence "  of  a  Neighbouring  State  invaded  or 
threatend  with  immediate  Invasion,  and  their  Power  to  be  granted 
only  in  the  Recess  of  the  General  Court 

The  Several   Articles  in  the  Constitution  or  Fram  of  Ooverment 

—  agreed  on  by  the  Convention  and  by  them  proposed  to  the  people 
for  their  Approbation,  rejection   or  Amendment  (except  the  3d. 


Boston   Town  Records,  1780.  129 

Article  in  the  Bill  of  Rights  and  the  2d.  Article  of  the  1',  Chapter 
relative  to  the  Mode  of  Electing  Senators)  having  been  consid- 
ered, paragraph  by  Paragraph  and  accepted,  as  the  several  Arti- 
cles stand  amended,  Article  by  Article  —  The  whole  was  put,  when 
it  was  unanimously  Voted,  to  accept  the  Same  ;  the  Meeting  then 
consisting  of  Eight  Hundred  &  Eighty  Seven  Voters 

[403.]  The  2d.  Article  of  the  1*.  Chapter  relative  to  the  Mode 
of  Electing  Senators  —  was  then  put — when  it  appeared  that 
Eight  hundred  Eighty  Six  were  for  accepting  the  said  Article  and 
but  one  who  was  for  rejecting  it 

A  Motion  was  made  to  reconsider  the  preceeding  Vote  —  but  the 
Motion  did  not  obtain 

It  was  moved  and  Voted  that  the  consideration  of  the  3d.  Article 
in  the  Declaration  of  Rights,  be  referred  to  3.  OClock  Afternoon 

Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3  O. Clock  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Adjournment 
The  3d.  Article  of  the  Bill  of  Rights  was  again  taken  into  con- 
sideration, and  the  debates  continuing  till  it  was  dark  —  it  was 
moved,  that  the  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  to  Morrow  Morning  9. 
OClock  in  the  Forenoon  and  that  the  consideration  of  said  Article 
be  then  taken  up.  Paragraph  by  Paragraph 
And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Tuesday  May  9th.  —  9.  0. Clock  Forenoon — Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

Moved  that  the  Consideration  of  the  3d.  Article  in  the  Declara- 
tion of  Rights,  be  taken  up  at  large  and  that  the  Vote  of  the  last 
Evening  for  considering  the  Same  Paragraph  by  Paragraph  be 
now  reconsidered  —  and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

[404.]  The  foregoing  Article  having  been  debated  at  large 
it  was  Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  same  be  now  taken  up  Para- 
graph by  Paragraph 

The  Article  being  again  considered  in  distinct  Paragraphs,  after 
by  debates  it  was  moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  further  considera- 
tion of  this  whole  Article  be  referred  to  a  Committee  to  Report 
such  alterations  as  they  may  Judge  most  convenient  to  the  Sense 
of  the  Town  as  discovered  in  the  present  debate 
Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Revd.  Mr.  Sillman 
Revd.  Doctf.  Cooper 
Ellis  Gray  Esq1". 
Perez  Morton  Esq1'. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  9.  0. Clock  Forenoon 

Wednesday  May  10th.  9.  O. Clock  Forenoon  —  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

The  Committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  consideration  of  the 
third  Article  in  the  Declaration  of    Rights  —  Reported  the  same 


130  City  Document  No.  80. 

with  such  alterations  as  they  Judged  most  consonant  to  the  Sense 
of  the  Town  and  is  as  follows  —  Viz1. 

As  the  Happiness  of  a  People  and  the  Good  Order ;  and 
[•405.]  Preservation  of  civil  Goverment  essentially  depends  upon 
Piety,  religion  and  morality ;  and  as  these  cannot  be  generally 
deffused  through  a  Community,  but  by  the  Publick  Worship  of 
God,  and  Publick  Instructions  in  Piety  religion  and  morality, 
Therefore  to  promote  their  happiness  and  to  secure  the  good  order 
and  preservation  of  their  Goverment  the  People  of  this  Common- 
wealth have  a  right  to  invest  their  Legislative  with  Power ;  to 
Authorize  and  require  all  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Commonwealth 
to  make  provision  at  their  own  expence  for  the  Publick  Worship 
of  God  and  for  the  support  and  maintaiuance  of  Publick  Protest- 
ant teachers  of  Piety,  Religion  and  Morality  who  have  not  made 
such  provision  voluntary,  or  who  have  not  made  voluntary  pro- 
vision for  some  other  Publick  religious  Teacher  or  for  the  support 
of  some  other  Publick  Worship  within  their  commonwealth  —  And 
the  several  Towns  Parishes  Precincts  and  other  Bodies  politick  or 
religious  societies  shall  at  all  times  have  the  exclusive  right  of 
electing  their  Publick  teachers  and  of  contracting  with  them  for 
their  support  and  maintaiuance ;  provided  nevertheless  that  the 
minority  of  such  Towns,  Parishes  Precincts  and  other  Bodies 
Politick  or  religious  Societies  shall  not  be  bound  by  the  voice  of 
the  Majority  in  their  electing  their  Publick  Teachers  or  con- 
tracting with  them  for  their  support,  but  sucli  Minority  may  if 
they  see  fit  elect  some  other  publick  religious  Teacher  and  Support 
him  And  all  Monies  Assessed  upon  the  Subject  for  the  support 
[406.]  Of  Publick  Worship  and  of  Publick  religious  Teachers 
shall  if  he  requires  it  be  uniformely  Applied  to  the  support  of  the 
Publick  Worship  which  he  may  chuse  to  support :  provided  how- 
ever that  such  Teachers  shall  bona  "  fide  receive  the  same  to  his 
own  Use  Otherwise  such  sum  shall  be  appropriated  to  the  use  of 
the  Poor  of  any  Parish  or  religious  society  that  such  Subject  shall 
chuse  if  he  makes  his  Election  within  twelve  Months,  and  if  not 
it  shall  be  applied  to  the  support  of  the  Poor  of  the  Parish  or  Pre- 
cinct in  which  said  Moneys  were  raised.  And  all  Religious  Sects 
and  Denominations  Whatsoever,  demeaning  themselves  Peaceably 
and  as  good  Subjects  of  the  Commonwealth  shall  be  equally  under 
the  Protection  of  Law  —  And  no  Subordination  of  any  one 
Meet  or  denomination  to  another  shall  ever  be  established  by 
Law 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  it  was  moved,  and 
Voted  that  a  Question  previous  to  the  Report,  being  Acted  upon. 
Viz1.  Whether  there  shall  be  anything  further  Added  to  the  2a. 
Article  in  the  Declaration  of  Rights,  which  relates  to  Religion  — 
And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Afferma- 
tive,  by  a  great  Majority 

The  said  Report  being  again  taken  up  Paragraph  by  Paragraph  — 
and  amended  the  same  was  Accepted  by  the  Town 

It  was  moved  and  Voted  that  when  this  Meeting  shall  be 
Adjourned  it  be  to  4.  0. Clock  P:  M: 

[407.]     Moved  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  bring  in  an 


Boston  Town  Eecords,  1780.  131 

Article  in  addition  to  the  Article  in  the  43  Page  — but  the  Motion 
was  withdrawn 

Adjourned  to  4:   0. Clock  P:  M: 

4:  0:  Clock  :  P:  M:    Met  according  to  Adjournment 

It  was  moved  and  carried  that  the  foregoing  Clauses  be  added 
to  the  Report  of  the  Committee  on  the  3d  Article  in  the  Declara- 
tion of  Rights  Viz1.  — "  The  foregoing  however  is  not  to  be  so 
construed  as  to  Nullify  or  infring  any  express  voluntary  Contract 
that  hath  been  entered  into  between  any  Person  or  Persons,  or 
any  Town  Parish,  Precinct  or  Body  of  Men  on  the  one  Part  and 
any  Teacher  or  Minister  of  Religion  on  the  other 

The  aforegoing  Report  of  the  Committee  of  the  Committee  on 
the  3d.  Article,  which  had  been  accepted  paragraph  by  paragraph  — 
was  put  in  the  whole  as  amended  —  when  it  appeared  that  Four 
hundred  and  twenty  were  for  accepting  the  Report — and  one 
hundred  and  Forty  against  Receiving  it 

A  Motion  was  then  made  that  if  the  amendments  proposed  by 
the  Town  cannot  be  obtained  by  their  Delagates,  that  they  then 
shall  be  and  hereby  are  Instructed  to  Vote  for  the  3d.  Article  in 
the  Declaration  of  Rights,  as  it  stands  in  the  Form  laid  before 
the  People  —  rather  than  the  Article,  should  be  lost  at  the  next 
Meeting  of  the  [408.]  Convention  —  And  the  Question  being 
put  —  it  appeared  that  two  hundred  and  seventy  seven  were  in 
faviour  of  the  Motion,  and  one  hundred  and  forty  against  it 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  to   appoint  a  Committee  to  draw  up  the 
reasons    for  the    proposed    Alterations  in   some   Articles   of    the 
Frame   of   a  Constitution    presented  by  the   Convention  ;  and  to 
draught  Instructions  to  our  Delagates  in  the  said  Convention 
Voted,  that  Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Eliot 
William  Tudor  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
be  a  Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next.  3  O:  Clock  P:  M: 

Fryday  May  12.  3  O. Clock  P:  M  met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Morton  had  leave  to  withdraw  his  dissent  to  the  passing  the 
Article  which  relates  to  the  mode  of  electing  Senators 

The  Preamble  to  the  Constitution  or  Form  of  Goverment  for 
the  Commonwealth  of  Massachusetts,  again  read  —  whereupon 
the  Question  was  put  —  Viz1.  Whether  the  Town  do  approve  and 
accept  of  the  Same  —  passed  in  the  Affermative 

[409.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  draw  up  reasons  for 
the  proposed  alterations  in  some  Articles  of  the  Constitution  or 
Form  of  Goverment  laid  before  the  Town,  and  also  to  draught 
Instruction  to  our  Delagates  in  the  Convention  —  Report  as  fol- 
lows —  Vizf. 
Gentlemen 

The  Town  of  Boston  have  Convened  in  a  legal  Meeting  to 
consider  the  Constitution  or  Forms  of  Goverment  agreed  on  by  the 


132  City  Document  No.  80. 

Convention,  &  by  them  proposed  to  the  People  for  their  Approba- 
tion, rejection,  or  amendment,  having  had  the  same  repeatedly 
read  proposed  to  a  discussion  of  the  Several  Articles  theireiu 
contained  and  having  recommended  amendments  in  the  16th. 
Article  of  the  Declaration  of  Rights,  in  the  7th.  Article  of  the  2d. 
Chapter  in  the  4th.  Section  of  the  2d.  Chapter  &  in  the  7th.  Article 
of  the  6th.  Chapter  unanimously  voted  to  accept  said  Constitution 
or  Form  of  Goverment  with  the  Amendments,  the  third  Article 
in  the  Declaration  of  Rights  excepted,  provided  by  the  most 
Strenious  endeavours  of  their  Delegates  the  said  Amendments  can 
be  procured,  otherwise  to  accept  the  said  Articles  as  they  were 
agreed  to  by  the  Convention,  But  the  3d.  Article  in  the  Declaration 
of  Rights  was  refered  to  futer  consideration  ;  the  meeting  then 
consisting  of  eight  hundred  and  eighty  seven  Voters  —  The  Town 
then  proceeded  to  consider  the  3d.  Article  ;  which  having  been 
largely  debated,  was  amended  and  Voted,  420  for  &  51  against 
it.  It  was  then  moved  and  seconded,  that  if-  you  could  not 
obtain  this  Article  as  amended,  you  should  be  impowered  to 
Vote  for  [410.]  The  3d.  Article  as  it  originally  stood  rather 
than  the  Amendment  should  be  the  Means  of  postponing  the 
establishment  of  the  Constitution  at  the  next  Meeting  of  the  Con- 
vention ;  as  some  Form  was  necessary  to  give  Stability  and  force 
to  Goverment.  The  Question  being  put  the  numbers  were  277  for 
and  140  against  it.  Your  utmost  exertions  are  nevertheless  ear- 
nestly enjoined  to  obtain  the  Amendments  A  principle  of  respect 
to  a  Body  of  Men  of  such  distinguished  rank  and  Ability  as  the 
Convention  would  not  assuredly  have  led  the  Town  to  Assign  the 
reasons  for  any  alterations  they  might  make  in  a  system  they  had 
formed  and  recommended.  But  as  the  Convention  have  requested 
the  doing  it,  it  is  now  to  be  performed  on  a  higher  Principle.  In 
general  it  may  be  Observed  that  the  Amendments  proposed  were 
made  upon  the  idea  that  they  would  more  effectually  subserve  the 
excuse  of  Civil  and  Religious  Liberty,  that  great  object  of  our 
endeavours,  and  the  point  to  which  all  our  efforts  ought  to  tend, 
The  Amendment  of  16th.  April  of  the  Declerations  of  Rights,  was 
made  upon  the  strongest  persuation,  that  Liberty  of  Speech,  as  it 
respected  publick  Men  in  their  publick  Conduct,  was  an  essential  and 
darling  right  of  every  member  of  a  free  State  upon  which  in  a  very 
emenent  Degree  the  preservation  of  their  other  reights  depends  ; 
that  nothing  spoken  with  design  to  give  information  of  the  State 
of  the  Publick  should  be  ever  subject  to  the  smalest  restraint ; 
and  that  any  Attempt  to  oppose  such  restraint  ought  to  excite  an 
alarm  in  the  People  as  it  infered  a  r-onsciousness  of  demerit  on  the 
part  of  those  Attempting  [411.]  That  such  restraint  was 
more  degrading  and  more  Strongly  marked  the  Slaves  than  ever 
the  privation  of  the  Liberty  of  the  Press;  and  that  the  latter,  so 
absolutely  necessary,  and  therefore  so  justly  dear  to  every  free 
State  could  not  be  maintained  in  its  full  force  and  vigour  without 
the  former.  But  while  we  hold  up  the  Liberty  of  the  Press,  as 
essentially  necessary  to  general  Freedom,  as  it  respects  publick 
.Miii  and  Measures  we  reject  with  Abhorre-nce  the  idea  of  its  abuse 
to  the  injury  of  private  Characters.  — The  next  amendment  gives 


Boston   Town   Kecords,   1780.  133 

Power  to  the  Governor,  in  the  recess  of  the  General  Court,  to 
march  or  transport,  the  Inhabitants  of  this  State  for  the  relief  of 
a  Neighbouring  State  invaded  or  threatened  with  immediate  in- 
vation.  This  was  judged  incumbent  on  the  general  Principles 
of  humanity,  and  absolutely  necessary  upon  the  Principles  of 
Policy,  A  threatn'd  invastion  may  be  wholly  prevented  by  the 
early  appearance  of  a  respectable  Military  force  and  Invation 
actually  begun  may  be  easally  repeled,  in  many  Instances  by  an 
immediate  Opposition.  In  the  former  casj^JJaerllives  &  Property 
of  our  Friends  &  Neighbours  may  be  entirely  saved  &  Secured  ; 
and  in  the  Latter  case  fewer  lives  may  be  lost  In  all  Probability, 
and  less  Property  Destroyed,  Besides  delay  may  give  oppertunity 
to  an  Enemy  (so  disposed)  to  take  Post,  and  establish  himself  in 
such  a  manner  as  would  require  a  very  great  force  to  remove  him 
while  an  early  force  might  be  adequate  to  his  immediate  ex- 
pulsion. Further  the  withholding  immediate  aid,  may  open 
a  passage  into  our  own  State,  and  to  bring  the  War  to  our  own 
doors.  —  It  was  also  suggested,  that  the  Article,  of  Confedera- 
tion bound  us  to  grant  immediate  relief,  which  can  only  be 
Obtained  by  [412.]  Vesting  the  Governor  with  such  power, 
and  was  therefore  Voted,  — The  next  amendements  respects 
the  time  of  service  of  the  Commissary  General  which  is  pro- 
posed to  be  limited  to  the  Term  of  Five  years.  This  was  done 
because  it  was  apprehended  that  a  change  or  relation  of  Officers 
was  necessary,  in  general  to  the  preservation  of  Freedom. 
Persons  longe  in  Office  are  apt  to  lose  that  sence  of  Dependance 
upon  the  People,  which  is  essential  to  keep  them  within  the  Line 
of  duty  to  the  Publick.  And  especially  may  the  good  of  the 
Community  be  promoted  by  the  retirements  of  such  Persons  from 
Office  at  certain  fixed  periods,  who  have  been  largely  intrusted 
with  Publick  Money  or  Stores  —  The  next  Article  respects  that 
important  Write  of  Habeas  Corpus.  Many  Reasons  might  be 
given  for  the  Alterations  made.  It  was  judged  best  to  confir  the 
Suspension  of  this  security  of  personal  Libert}7  or  freedom  from 
Imprisonments  to  times  of  War,  invation  and  rebellion,  the  terms 
urgent  .and  pressing  occations,  being  too  indefinite  and  giving 
scope  to  the  most  powerfull  Engine  of  Despotism,  and  Slavery. 
It  was  not  conceived  that  an}'  cause  could  possibly  exist  in  time 
of  peace,  that  could  justify  imprisonments  without  allegation  or 
charge  ;  and  the  granting  a  Power  in  a  season  of  tranquility  liable 
to  such  gross  abuse,  and  which  might  be  attend  with  consequences 
destructive  of  the  dearest  priviledges  and  best  interest  of  the  Sub- 
ject was  deemed  incompatable  with  every  Principle  of  Liberty. 
Nay  it  was  apprehended  that  it  might  Opperate  as  an  incentive  to 
Despotism;  and  to  hold  up  a  temtation  [413.]  to  Tyranny  while 
human  Nature  is  constituted  as  we  find  it  was  judged  to  be  wholly 
inexpedient.  Confineing  the  suspencion  won  in  time  of  War,  in- 
vation and  rebellion,  to  Six  Months,  was  supposed  a  proper 
Limetation,  as  every  purpose  of  an  honest  Goverment  might  be 
fully  answered,  in  that  period.  A  larger  pereod  might  lead  to 
a  State  of  forgetfullness  of  the  unhappy  Subject  of  Suspission, 
and  he  might  Draff  on  a  Wretched  beinsf  in  the  Dark  abode  of  a 


134  City  Document  No.  80. 

Dungion,  or  within  the  gloom}'  walls  of  a  Prison,  without  a  Single 
Ray  of  hope  to  enlighten  his  cell  or  a  single  Friend  to  chear  his 
Desponding  spirit.  Thus  may  his  dreadfull  Confinement  when 
the  Reason  that  operated  to  his  Commitment  have  been  long  done 
away.  Can  a  Power  pregrant  with  such  mighty  Evils  be  too 
Strongly  guarded ;  Or  can  we  be  too  solicetious  to  confine  it  within 
the  narrow  limits  that  will  comport  with  the  Publick  safety?  — 
The  only  Article  now  to  be  attended  to  is  the  third  in  the  Decele- 
ration of  Rights,  which  Asserts  that  Piety,  Religion  and  morality 
are  essential  to  the  happiness,  Peace  and  Good  order  of  a  People 
and  that  these  Principles  are  diffused  by  the  Publick  Worship  of 
God,  and  by  Publick  Instructions  &c  — :  and  in  Consequence  makes 
provision  for  their  support.  The  alterations  proposed  here  which 
you  will  Lay  before  the  Convention  were  designed  to  Secure  the 
Reights  of  Consience  and  to  give  the  fullest  Scope  to  religious 
Liberty  In  support  of  the  proposition  it  urged  that  if  Publick 
Worship  and  Publick  teaching,  did  certainly  (as  was  allowed) 
defuse  a  general  Sence  of  Duty  &  moral  Obligations,  and,  so 
secured  the  safety  of  our  [414.]  Persons  and  Properties,  we 
ought  chearf ully  to  pay  those  from  whose  agency  we  derived  such 
Advantages.  But  we  are  Attempting  to  support  (it  is  said)  the 
Kingdom  of  Christ ;  It  may  as  well  be  said  we  are  supporting  the 
Kingdom  of  God,  by  institution  of  a  Civil  Goverment,  which  De- 
clared to  be  an  Ordinance  to  the  Deity,  and  so  refuse  to  pay  the 
civil  magistrate.  What  will  be  the  consequence  of  such  refusal  — 
The  greatest  disorders,  if  not  a  Dissolution  of  Society.  Suspend 
all  provision  for  the  inculation  of  Morality,  religion  and  Piety,  and 
confusion  &  every  evil  work  may  be  justly  dreaded ;  for  it  is 
found  that  with  all  the  Restraints  of  religion  induced  by  the 
Preaching  of  Ministers,  and  with  all  the  Restraints  of  Goverment 
inforced  by  civil  Law,  the  World  is  far  from  being  as  quiet  an 
abode  as  might  be  wished.  Remove  the  former  by  ceasing  to 
support  Morality,  religion  and  Piety  and  it  will  be  soon  felt  that 
human  Laws  were  f eble  barriers  opposed  to  the  uninformed  lusts  of 
Passions  of  Mankind.  But  though  we  are  not  supporting  the 
kingdom  of  Christ  may  we  not  be  permitted  to  Assist  civil  society 
by  an  addoption,  and  by  the  teaching  of  the  best  set  of  Morals 
that  were  ever  offered  to  the  World.  To  Object  to  these  Morrals, 
or  even  to  the  Piety  and  Religion  we  aim  to  inculcate,  because 
they  are  drawn  from  the  Gospel,  must  appear  very  singular  to  an 
Assembly  generally  professing  themselves  Christians.  Were 
this  really  our  intention,  no  Objection  ought  to  be  made  to  it 
provided,  as  in  fact  the  case  that  equal  Liberty  is  granted  to 
every  religious  Sect  and  Denomination  [415.]  Whatever,  and 
it  is  only  required  that  every  Man  should  pay  to  the  support  of 
Publick  Worship  In  his  own  way.  But  should  any  be  so  Consci- 
entious that  they  cannot  pay  to  the  support  of  any  of  the  various 
denominations  among  us  they  may  then  alott  their  Money  to  the 
support  of  the  Poor  —  It  remains  only  to  fix  the  time  when  this 
Form  of  Goverment  shall  take  place  ;  But  having  had  large  expe- 
rience of  your  Ability  and  Zeal  in  the  course  of  the  very  lengthy 
Session  of   Convention,  the  last  Winter  we  very  Chearfully  leave 


Boston   Town   Records,   1780.  135 

the  Determination  of  this  point  to  that  prudence,  Judgement  and 
Integrity,  which  have  so  strongly  marked  your  conduct  in  this 
Department  and  to  the  united  Wisdom  of  the  whole  Body. 

The  foregoing  Report  of  the  Committee  having  been  read  and 
considered — the  Question  was  put  —  Viz*.  "Whether  the  same 
shall  be  accepted,  by  the  Town  "  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative, 
almost  unanimously 

The  Resolves  of  the  Convention,  passed  the  2d.  March  having 
been  read  and  considered  —  whereupon 

Voted,  almost  unanimously  that  the  Selectmen  of  this  Town  be 
directed  to  transmit  to  the  Secretary  of  the  Convention  the  doings 
of  this  Town  relative  to  the  Form  of  Goverment  agreeable  to  the 
Resolves  of  Convention  ;  in  order,  to  the  Secretary  of  Convention 
laying  the  same  before  a  Committee  to  be  appointed  for  the  pur- 
pose of  examining  and  [4:16.]  Arranging  them  for  the  Rivision 
and  consideration  of  the  Convention  at  the  Adjournment ;  with 
the  Number  of  Voters  on  each  side  of  every  Question,  in  order 
that  the  said  Convention  at  the  Adjournment  may  Collect  the  gen- 
eral sense  of  their  (Constituents  on  the  several  parts  of  the  pro- 
posed Constitution/;  and  if  it  do  not  appear  to  be  two  thirds,  of 
their  Constituents  in  faviour  thereof,  that  the  Convention  may 
alter  it  in  such  a  manner  as  that  it  may  be  Agreeable  to  the  sen- 
timents of  two  thirds  of  the  Voters  throughout  the  State,  also 

Voted,  almost  unanimousley  the  Delegates  of  this  Town  be  and 
hereby  are  impowered  at  the  next  Session  of  the  Convention  ;  to 
agree  upon  a  time  when  this  Form  of  Goverment  shall  take  Place 
without  returning  the  same  again  to  the  People  :  Provided  that 
two  thirds  of  the  Male  Inhabitants  of  the  Age  of  twenty  one 
years  and  upwards,  Voting  in  the  Several  Towns  and  Plantations 
Meeting,  shall  agree  to  the  Same,  or  the  Convention  shall  conform 
it  to  the  Sentements  of  two  thirds  of  the  People  as  aforesaid 

A  Motion  made,  that  this  Meeting  be  now  dessolved 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  dissolved. 


[4:17.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants 
of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in  Pub- 
lick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneiuel  Hall  on  Tuesday  the 
16th.  Day  of  May  Anno  Domini  1780.   10.  0. Clock  Forenoon 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Eliot 

The  Precept  and  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  -  -  •• 
read 

Sundry  Laws read 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  seven  Persons  to  Repre- 
sent them  in  the  Great  and  General  Court  or  Assembly  to  be  held 
at  the  Town  House  in  Boston  upon  Wednesday  the  31'.  Day  of 
May  Current  —  The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly  directed  to 
withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  Seven  Representatives,  and 
then  it  was  declared  by  the  Selectmen,  that  no  Votes  would  be 
received,  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  the}-  Propose  the 
Poll  shall  be  closed  at  12  O. Clock 

The  Votes   being  brought   in    for   Seven   Representatives,  the 


136  City  Document  No.  80. 

Number  of  the  same  were  found  to  be  three  hundred  and  Sixty 
Six,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  the  following  Persons 
were  chose  —  Viz'. 

The  Honble.     Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  388     Excus'd 

The  Honble.     John  Hancock  Esqr.      -     355 
[•418.]  Caleb  Davis  Esqr.     -     -     365 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr.  357 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr.  192     Excus'd 

John  Lowell  Esqr.  361 

Thomas  Walley  202 

The  choice  of  Representatives  being  over  and  declared  by  the 
Selectmen  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  in  order  that  the 
Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  Other  Affairs  mentioned  in 
the  Warrent ;  accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew  and  brought 
in  their  Votes,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  Appeared  that 
The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  was  chosen 
Adjourned  to  3.  0. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  O'Clock  Afternoon  met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Clement  Collins  Junr.  was  chose  a  Measurer  of  Boards  for 
the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  one  Constable  in  the 
room  of  Mr.  Benjamin  White  who  declines  serving,  and  upon  sort- 
ing them  it  appeared  that  Mr.  Jonathan  Loring  was  Chosen 

Ellis  Gray  having  sent  in  his  excuse  in  writing  for  not  serving 
the  Town  as  one  of  their  Representatives  in  the  General  Assembly, 
it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Choice  of  a  Representative  in 
his  room  be  postponed  till  the  Adjournment 

[419.]  The  Clause  in  the  "Warrant  Viz1.  — To  consider 
whether  Instructions  shall  be  given  to  the  Representatives,  that 
may  be  chosen  —  was  read  aud  after  some  debate  thereon  it  was 
moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of  this  matter 
be  referred  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

The  Clause  in  the  Warrant.  Viz1.  —  "  To  determin  what  is 
proper  to  be  done  with  respect  to  the  North  Battery"  —  was 
read  whereupon,  it  was  moved  aud  carried  that  a  Committee  be 
now  chosen  to  consider  this  Article,  and  Report  as  soon  as  may  be 
what  they  Judge  best  for  the  Town  to  do  thereon 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Barber 

Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
Mr.  John  Ballard 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  also 

Voted,  that  said  Committee  be  directed  to  make  enquirey  and 
search  into  the  Town  Title  to  the  Land  at  and  near  North  Battery 

On  a  motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  issue  a  Warrant 
to  the  Constables,  for  notifying  again  such  persons  as  have  been 
chosen  into  Office,  and  have  neglected  to  qualify  themselves  as 
the  Law  directs  by  taking  the  Oath  of  Office 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esq1",  came  into  Meeting  and  Ac- 
quainted the  Town  that  he  had  Just  been  regularly  notified  of  the 
Honour  they  had  dune  him  in  [420.]  Electing  him  one  of  their 


Boston   Town   Records,    1780.  137 

Representatives  in  the  General  Assembly  ;  that  as  he  could  not 
suppose  them  to  be  unacquainted  with  his  intention  to  repair  to 
Philadelphia  to  attend  his  duty  as  a  Member  of  Congress,  he 
could  not  but  feel  very  sensibly  the  Particular  mark  of  respect 
with  which  the  Town  had  honoured  him  in  this  Election :  that  he 
had  always  served  them  to  the  utmost  of  his  capasity  with  the 
greatest  alacrity  and  should  be  happy  in  still  considering  himself 
tho.  at  Congress  as  not  altogether  out  of  the  service  of  a  Town 
that  makes  so  respectable  a  part  of  the  State  of  Massachusetts, 
he  concluded  that  as  it  was  probable  he  should  be  Absent  from 
this  State  the  greatest  part  of  the  Year  it  was  therefore  his  desire 
that  another  Representative  might  be  Elected  in  his  room  where- 
upon it  was 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Adams  be  excused  from  serving  as  a  Represent- 
ative 

Voted,  that  the  choice  of  a  Representative  in  the  room  of  Mr. 
Adams  for  serving  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  of  proper  and  adequate 
Grants  to  the  Schoolmasters,  Report  as  their  Opinion  —  That  they 
ought  to  receive  the  same  Sum  in  Specie  as  was  allowed  them  in 
the  Year  1774  — or  a  Sum  in  Paper  Mone}r  equal  to  the  Exchange 
said  Exchange  to  be  settled  by  the  Selectmen  at  the  date  of  these 
Draughts  for  payments  according  to  the  rate  of  Gold  and 
Silver  —  and  that  the  Master  of  the  North  Writing  School  have 
an  additional  allowance  of  fourteen  Pounds  p  Annum  for  House 

[431.]  Rent  or  the  Exchange  as  aforesaid 

After  some  debate  on  the  foregoing  Report  it  was  moved  and 
Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this  Report  be  referred  to  the 
Adiourment 

Adjournment  to  Tuesday  the  23d.  Day  of  May  Instant  10. 
O'Clock  Beforenoon 

Tuesday  the  23d.  Day  of  May  10.  OClock  Forenoon,  met  ac- 
cording to  adjournment 

The  Meeting  for  the  choice  of  two  Representatives  in  the  room 
of  Mr.  Adams  and  Mr.  Gray  who  had  declined  serving,  being  Ad- 
journed to  this  time — Mr.  Scollay  Chairman  of  the  Selectmen  in 
their  Name  directed  the  Inhabitants  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes  for  two  Representatives,  and  their  it  was  declared  that 
no  Votes  would  be  received,  but  such  as  are  unfolded 

The  Votes  being  accordingly  brought  in  the  number  of  the  same 
were  found  to  be  two  hundred,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared, 
that  the  two  following  Persons  were  chose  —  Viz4. 

Mr.  Samuel  Austin      ------     101 

Ezekiel  Price  Esq1'. -     180  (excused) 

The  choice  of  two  Persons  as  Representatives  being  over  and 
declared  by  the  Selectmen 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  the  Meeting 
for  transacting  the  other  Affairs  mentioned  in  the  Warrant,  again 
took  the  Chair 

[422.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.  "To  consider 
whether  Instructions  shall  be   given  to  the  Representatives   that 


138  City  Document  No.  80. 

may  be  chosen,  was  read   and  after   some   debate  had  thereon  it 
was 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  shall  now  be  chosen  to  draw  up  In- 
structions for  the  Gentelmen  chosen  to  represent  this  Town  in  the 
General  Assembly  to  Report  a  Draught  at  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting  — 

Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 

Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
M1.  Leonard  Jarvis 
be  a  Committee  for  the<  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Wednesday  9.  OClock 
Forenoon 

And  the  Meetiug  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


Wednesday  9.  O. Clock  Beforenoon  —  Met  according  to  Ad- 
journment 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  one  of  the  Gentelmen  chosen  to  Represent 
this  Town  having  by  his  desire  been  excused  from  serving  —  Mr. 
Scollay  Chairman  of  the  Selectmen  in  their  Name  directed  the  In- 
habitants to  withdraw,  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  one  Repre- 
sentative, and  that  it  was  declared  that  no  Votes  will  be  received 
but  such  as  are  unfolded 

The  Votes  being  accordingly  brought  in  and  [423.]  Sorted,  it 
appeared  that  the  Number  of  Votes  were  one  hundred  and  fifty 
Three,  and  that  John  Rowe  Esqr.     -     -     -     144  was  chosen 

The  choice  of  a  Representative  in  the  Room  of  Ezekiel  Price 
Esqr.  who  had  declined  serving,  being  over  and  delivered  by  the 
Selectmen 

The  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  the  Meeting 
for  transacting  the  Other  affairs  mentioned  in  the  Warrant,  again 
took  the  Chair 

The  Committee  to  consider  what  is  proper  to  be  done  on  the 
Article  in  the  Warrant  which  respects  the  North  Battery,  Reported 
verbally 

That  it  appeared  to  the  Committee  to  be  for  the  Interest  o'f  the 
Town,  that  the  Battery  Estate  should  be  Leased  or  otherwise  im- 
proved for  the  benefit  of  the  Town,  and  the  Committee  asked 
leave  to  Report  further  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  aforesaid  be  desired  to  Report  fur- 
ther, as  soon  as  may  be 

The  Selectmen  a  Committee  to  procure  a  Room  for  the  accom- 
modation of  the  Youth  of  the  South  part  of  The  Town,  in  the 
room  of  the  School  House  lately  consumed  by  Fire  —  Reported 

That  they  could  not  obtain  a  proper  Building  for  a  School,  and 
that  they  had  therefore  —  caused  a  plan  to  be  drawn  for  a  suitable 
Building  for  that  purpose  which  with  an  Estimate  of  the  charge 
thereof,  they  beg'd  leave  to  lay  before  the  Town  for  their  con- 
sideration whereupon 

[424:.]  Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this  Report  and  what 
is  proper  to  be  done  thereon,  be  referred  over  to  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting 


Boston   Town   Records,    1780.  139 

The  Committee  of  Eighteen  relative  to  purchasing  of  Grain  &c 
Reported  verbally 

That  they  are  not  at  present  ready  for  closing  their  Accounts 
with  Mr.  Van  Ranselier  of  N  York,  who  had  been  employed  by 
them  in  purchasing  Grain,  but  that  they  hoped  they  should  be  able 
to  Report  and  lay  their  Doings  before  the  Town  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment —  on  a  Motion 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  it  be  to  Wednes- 
day the  14  Day  of  June  next.  10.  O'Clock  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned 
in  publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuiel  Hall  the  9th.  Day 
of  June  1780.     3  O.Clock.  P:  M: 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw,  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator,  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared  that 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
was  chosen,  unanimously 

[42-5.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "To  consider 
and  determine  upon  the  most  expeditious,  and  equal  way  of  rais- 
ing this  Towns  proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army  as 
required  by  a  Resolve  of  the  General  Court"  —  was  read,  as  also 
the  Resolve  of  the  General  Court  passed  the  5th.  Day  of  June 
Current"  —  was  read,  as  also  the  Resolve  of  the  General  Court 
mentioned  above  —  whereupon  it  was  moved,  and 

Voted,  that  whatever  charge  may  arise  on  raising  the  Towns 
proportion  of  Men,  over  and  above  the  encouragement  given  by 
Goverment,  shall  be  defreyed  by  a  Town  Tax 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  Thousand  Pounds,  be 
raised  by  a  Tax  upoii  Polls  and  Estates  within  this  Town  for  the 
sole  purpose  of  carrying  on  the  War,  the  same  to  be  added  to  the 
next  Tax  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  impowered 
to  borrow  a  Sum  of  Money  not  exceeding  One  hundred  thousand 
Pounds  to  be  appropriated  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  on  the 
War,  and  that  he  give  his  Negotiable  Note  to  the  respective 
Lenders  on  Interest  for  the  Sums  by  them  advanced  the  same  to 
be  paid  out  of  the  aforesaid  Tax  as  it  shall  be  brought  into  the 
Treasury 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  directed  to 
pay  unto  Edward  Proctor  Esqr.  Col0,  of  the  Boston  Regiment, 
such  sums  as  may  be  Necessary  to  defray  the  Bounty  that  may  be 
given  the  [426.]  Men  which  shall  be  Inlisted,  as  also,  the 
Selectmen  of  the  Town,  what  may  be  Sufficient  to  pay  the  Men 
that  shall  be  raised  their  Mileage 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "  To  consider  and  determin 
upon  the  most  expeditious  and  equal  way  of  Providing  the  Towns 
proportion   of    Shirts,    Shoes,    Stockings    and   Blankets    for   the 


140  City  Document  No.  80. 


Army  agreable   to  a  Resolve  of    the  General   Court    passed    the 
21st.  of  April  last  —  was  read  —  whereupon 
Voted,  that  Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 

Stephen  Higgiuson  Esqr. 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 

Samuel  Brick  Esq1. 

Herman  Brimmer 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  and  Report  thereon  at  the  Adjournment 
Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  being  the  14th.  of  June  Ins',  at 
3  OClock  Afternoon 

Wednesday  the  14th.  of  June— 3  O. Clock  P:M:  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  and  determin  on  the  most 
expeditious  and  equal  way  of  providing  the  Towns  proportion  of 
Shirts  Shoes  Stockings  and  Blankets  for  the  Arrny  beg  leave  to 
Report,  that  they  are  of  opinion  that  the  best  &  most  expeditious. 
Method  is  to  desire  the  Selectmen  to  purchase  said  Articles,  on 
the  best  terms  and  as  soon  [427.]  as  possible,  the  Selectmen  to 
be  furnished  with  Money  for  that  purpose  out  of  the  Town  Treas- 
urey  and  in  case  there  should  not  be  Money  Sufficient  in  the 
Treasurey,  to  choose  a  Committee  of  three  in  each  Ward  to  waite 
on  Gentelmen  of  Property  desiring  them  to  Advance  the  Town 
what  Money  they  can  possibly  spare  the  Money  so  advanced  to  be 
discounted  out  of  the  Tax  now  issuing  —  Isaac  Smith  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed  in 
the  Affermative  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  Thousand  Pounds  be 
raised  by  a  Tax  on  Polls  &  Estates  within  this  Town  for  the  Sole 
purpose  of  carrying  on  the  War,  the  same  to  be  added  to  the  Tax 
of  £100,000  —  already  granted — also 

Voted,  that  Committees  be  appointed  in  e^ich  Ward  for  procur- 
ing Subscriptions  for  Loaning  and  immediatley  paying  into  the 
Treasurey  the  two  Hundred  Thousand  Pounds,  for  the  purposes 
mentioned  in  the  foregoing  Votes 

Voted,  that  the  several  Companies  of  the  Boston  Militia  be  de- 
sired, to  appoint  at  their  respective  Meetings  to  be  on  Thursday 
next,  three  Persons  out  of  each  Company  to  procure  the  Subscrip- 
tions aforesaid 

Voted,  that  the  following  be  the  head  of  a  Subscription  Paper 
for  each  Company  of  the  Militia  —  Viz'. 

[428.]  The  Town  of  Boston  having  by  a  Late  Vote  deter- 
mined that  the  Charge  of  raising  their  proportion  of  Men  for  the 
Continental  Army  over  and  above  the  encouragement  given  by 
Goverment  shall  be  def reyed  by  a  Town  Tax  —  and  having  also 
Voted  to  borrow  a  Sum  of  Money  not  exceeding  two  hundred 
Thousand  Pounds,  for  the  purpose  of  paying  the  Men  to  be  raised 
their  Bounty  and  Miladge,  and  also  for  procuring  Shirts,  Blankets, 
Shoes  &  Stockings  as  required  of  the  Town  by  a  late  Resolve  of 
the  General  Assembly  ;  which  Money  as  borrowed  is  to  be  paid 
into  the  Town  Treasurer  for  which  the  Treasurer  is  to  give  negoti- 


Boston   Town   Records,    1780,  141 

able  Notes  to  the  respective  Lenders  on  Interest,  which  Notes  are 
to  be  discharged  out  of  the  aforesaid  Tax  as  it  shall  be  brought 
into  the  Treasury  —  therefore 

We  the  Subscribers  apprehending  it  to  be  of  the  last  importance, 
at  the  present  Crisis  that  our  proportion  of  Men  be  immediately 
raised  and  the  proper  Supplies  forwarded  —  hereby  chearfully  en- 
gage to  furnish  the  respective  Sums  set  against  our  Names 

Voted,  that  Edward  Procter  Esq1'.  Colonel  of  the  Boston  Regi- 
ment be  furnished  with  one  fair  Copy  for  each  Company  in  said 
Regement 

Moved  that  Col0.  Procter  be  desired  not  to  exceed  £1000  — in 
the  offer  of  a  Town  Bounty  to  the  Men  that  are  to  be  raised  "  — 
and  the  Question  was  put  —  Passed  in  the  Negative 

[429.]  Voted,  that  it  be  Left  to  Col0.  Proctor  to  procure  this 
Towns  proportion  of  Men  to  reinforce  the  Continental  Army,  on 
the  best  terms  he  is  able 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  when  Adjourned,  be  to  Fryday  next 
3.  O:  Clock  P:M: 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Fryda}'  June  16th.— i  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon — Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made — Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Ad- 
journed it  shall  be  to  Monday  next  being  the  19th  Instant  —  3 
0:  Clock  Afternoon 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that  the  several  Captains  of  the 
Boston  Militia  be  desired  to  Notify  their  respective  Companies, 
that  the  Meeting  relative  to  raising  our  proportion  of  Men  for  the 
Continental  Army,  Stand  Adjourned  to  Monday  Next  —  when  it 
is  hoped,  that  they  will  give  a  very  general  Attendance 

Then  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  the  19th  of  June.  3.  0. Clock  P:  M:  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 

There  being  but  very  few  of  the  Inhabitants  at  this  Meeting  — 
A  Motion  was  made  —  That  the  [430.]  Sense  of  the  Town 
or  Inhabitants,  be  taken  as  to  the  expedienc}'  of  proceeding  to 
Buissiness  —  after  some   debate  —  the  Motion  was  withdrawn 

Cap'.  Hodson  of  the  Militia  moved,  that  a  Committee  be  now 
appointed  for  the  purpose  of  raising  the  Towns  proportion  of  Men 
for  the  Continental  Army,  and  that  the  Committee  set  at  Fanuiel 
Hall  so  long  as  Col0.  Proctor  shall  think  it  expedient  —  and  that 
no  higher  sura  than  the  £1000  —  be  Offered  as  a  bound}*  —  the 
Motion  being  Seconded  —  after  some  Debates  had  thereon  —  the 
same  was  withdrawn 

It  was  then  moved  and  Voted,  that  it  be  recommended  to  Col0. 
Proctor  not  to  go  beyond  One  Thousand  Pounds  p  Man  as  a 
Boundy  to  such  Persons  as  shall  Inlist  —  also 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Proctor  be  desired  to  Collect  of  the  Committee 
of  the  several  Militia  Companies  appointed  to  procure  Subscrip- 
tions the  Amount  of  those  Subscriptions  and  lodge  the  same  with 


14:2  City  Document  No.  80. 

the  Town  Clerk  a  Day   before  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 
in  order  to  their  being  then  laid  before  the  Town 
Adjourned  to  Fry  clay  next  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

Fry day  the  23d.  Day  of  June  3.  OClock  Afternoon  met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

[431.]  Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 

Col0.  Procter  agreeable  to  the  request  of  the  Town,  laid  before 
the  Meetiug  the  Subscriptions  for  raising  Men,  amounting  as  bv 
Copy  on  file  £140.500 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  wait 
upon  the  Gentelmen  of  the  Town,  in  order  to  procure  Subscrip- 
tions to  the  Amount  of  One  hundred  fifty  nine  thousand  five  hun- 
dred Pounds,  in  Addition  to  the  Sum  of  £140,500  —  already 
Subscribed  for  the  Sole  purpose  of  carrying  on  the  War 
Voted,  that  Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Samuel  Broom  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  the  Purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  the  further  Sum  off  One  hundred  Thousand  Pounds 
be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon  Polls  and  Estates  within  this  Town  in 
Addition  to  the  Sum  of  £200,000  already  granted  for  the  Sole 
purpose  of  carrying  on  the  War 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  impowered 
to  borrow  on  Interest  a  Sum  of  Money  not  exceeding  two  hun- 
dred thousand  Pounds  in  addition  to  the  £100,000  —  already  Voted 
to  be  borrowed,  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  on  the  War,  and  that 
he  give  his  Negotiable  Notes  to  the  respective  Lenders  on  Interest 
for  the  Sum  by  them  Advanced,  the  same  to  be  paid  out  of  the 
aforesaid  Tax  as  it  shall  be  brought  into  the  Treasurey 

[432.]     On  a  Motion  made.  Voted,  that 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
be  added  to  the  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions  for 
the  Sole  purpose  of  carrying  on  the  War 

Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  3  OClock  Afternoon 

Wednesday  June  28th.  — 3  O. Clock  Afternoon  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

A  number  of  Jurymen,  were  chosen,  and  drawn  for  the  next 
Inferior  Court,  as  will  appeared  entered  in  the  Jury  Book 

The  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions  agreeable  to 
a  Vote  of  the  late  Meeting  —  Reported  verbally  —  That  they 
had  Collected  of  the  Inhabitants  for  the  Sole  purpose  of  carrying 
on  the  War  twenty  six  thousand  Pounds,  since  the  former  Sub- 
scription—  They  also  acquainted  the  Town  that  there  had 
been  Collected  of  the  Inhabitants  by  a  Committee  of  the  General 
Court  for  the  use  of  this  State,  One  hundred  and  forty  thousand 
four  hundred  and  Seventy  Pounds 

It  was  moved  that  That  the  severall  Collectors  of  this  Town 
lay  before  the  Inhabitants,  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  a 


Boston   Town   Records,    1780.  143 

List  of  such  Taxes  as  has  not  yet  been  paid  the  Persons  from  whom 
they  were  [433.]  coming  having  been  called  upon  for  the  same 

In  the  Course  of  the  debate  such  Objections  were  stated  as  in- 
fluensed  to  the  Motions  being  withdrawn 

On  a  Motion  Voted  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall 
be  to  Thursday  Morning  10.  O. Clock 

Voted,  that  directions  be  given  for  ringing  all  the  Bells  in  Town 
from  one  quarter  of  an  Houre  before  10.  O. Clock  the  Hour  of  the 
Adjournment 

Voted,  that  the  Constables  of  the  Town  be  directed,  by  the 
Town  Clerk  to  Notify  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Adjournment,  and  to 
press  their  attendance 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned 

Thursday  the  29th.  Day  of  June  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon  —  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  a  Paper  called  the  Crisis  N°.  9  was  read  to  the  In- 
habitants 

The  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions  agreeable  to 
a  Vote  at  the  late  Meeting  Reported 

That  the  Subscription  List  for  anticipating  the  Tax  for  the 
State  laid  on  this  Town  to  be  called  in  by  the  15th.  of  July  next 
amounts  to  £145,320  —  the  Sum  Subscribed  in  the  Several  Wards, 
for  paying  Bounties  &  Amounts  to  £150,000  and  the  Sum  Sub- 
scribed to  the  Committee  of  which  Mr.  Appleton  is  Chairman  for 
the  same  use  amount  to  £27,400 

[434.]  That  there  remains  to  be  Subscribed  for  the  State 
£161,680     -     -     -     for  the  Town  £123,000  in  the  whole  £284,680 

That  the  Committee  are  of  Opinion  that  it  will  be  eligible  that 
the  Subscription  List  be  kept  open  till  Saturday  next  10.  O. Clock  in 
the  Hands  of  Mr.  Walley  for  the  State,  and  Mr.  Appleton  for  the 
Town  ;  and  it  cannot  be  thought  that  the  Inhabitants  are  so  desti- 
tute of  all  regard  to  their  Country,  their  Brethren  in  Arms,  or  to 
their  own  Safety  as  to  withold  their  support  on  this  Interesting 
occasion  —  The  Committee  beg  leave  to  set  till  said  time  to  corn- 
pleat  their  Report 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  Collect 
from  the  Several  Captains  and  the  Collectors  the  Sums  Subscribed 
in  the  several  Wards,  and  to  lay  a  List  of  the  Subscribers  before 
a  Committee  of  the  Town,  to  be  appointed  to  receive  the  Same 

Ward. 

Voted,  that  Nath1.  Barber       -------      N°.  1 

Jedediah  Parker  --------'  2 

Cap'.  John  Ballard  -------  3 

John  Cogswell 4 

Capb.  William  Mackay  ------  5 

John  Lowell   ---- 6 

Nathan  Frazier    --- 7 

Cap1.  Kneeland 8 

Mr.  Clark  ----- 9 

Capf.  Boyls -     -     -  10 

Cap1.  Cook -     -  11 

Henry  Bass    -     -     - 12 

be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 


144  City  Document  No.  80. 

[435.]  On  a  Motion  Voted  that  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  be 
desired  to  attend  with  their  Tax  Books  at  the  Adjournment 

A  Motion  made  and  carried  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to 
receive  the  Reports  of  the  forenamed  Committee  of  Twelve,  and 
also  to  devise  Ways  and  Means  for  immediately  compleatiug  the 
Recruits  and  Supplies  for  the  Army 

Voted,  that  Sam1.  Allen  Otis  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
Col0.  Waters      . 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  be  to  4.  OClock 
Afternoon 

Voted  that  the  Town  Cryer  be  employed  to  inform  the  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  Adjournment,  and  the  Important  Business  then  to 
come  before  the  Town 

Adjourned  to  4.  O:  Clock  Afternoon 

3.  OClock  P:  M:    Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  in  the  Forenoon  to  devise  ways  and 
means  for  the  immediate  compleatiug  of  the  Recruits  and  Sup- 
plies—  Reported  as  entered  Page  122  in  the  Quarto-Book  — 
which  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the  Question 
was  put  —  [436.]  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted' —  Passed 
in  the  Affermative 

Moved    and  Voted,  that    the  Committee  appointed   to  procure 
Subscriptions  &c  be  desired  to  go  into  the  Selectmen's  Chamber, 
that  such  Persons  as  have   not   Subscribed  might  now  have   an 
oppertunity  of  doing  it,  as  well  as  those  who  incline  to  enlarge  their 
Subscriptions  on  so  interesting  an  Occasion 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Johonnot 
Col0.  Waters 
be  added  to  said  Committee 

Adjourned  to  Saturday  the  1  Day  of  July  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon 

Saturday  the  ll.  Day  of  July  10  O'Clock  Forenoon — Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  when  tliis  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it 
shall  be  to  Thursday  the  6th.  Day  of  July,  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

Noted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  Issue  a  Warrant  to 'the  Constables, 
to  Notify  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Adjournment,  and  the  importance 
of  a  general  attendance  also 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  publish  in  the  several  News  Papers 
that  this  Meeting  stands  Adjourned  to  Thursday  the  6  Day  of 
July  Ins'.  3.  O. Clock  [437.]  Afternoon — princepally  for  the 
Purpose  of  receiving  the  Subscriptions  of  the  Inhabitants  for  the 
Advance  of  their  Taxes,  which  they  will  be  oblidged  to  pay  by 
the  thirteenth  of  July  Current,  and  that  such  of  the  Inhabitants 
as  have  not  Subscribed  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  and  shall  absent 


Boston   Town   Eecords,   1780.  145 

themselves  from  said  Adjournment,  will  be  considered  as  declin- 
ing any  exertions  to  assist  the  Publick  —  also  that  is  earnestly 
desired,  of  the  Subscribers  and  Inhabitants  to  give  a  General  and 
punctual  Attendance  —  also  the  Subscription  Papers  will  lay  open 
with  Mr.  Walley  and  Mr.  Appleton 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned  to  the  said  6th.  Day  of  July, 
3.  O.Clock  P:  M 

Thursday  the  6th.  Day  of  July  3  O.Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions,  Reported  to 
the  Town  that  the  Subscriptions  amount  to  £31,850  -     -     - 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Assessors  be  desired  to  Attend  and 
inform  the  Town  When  they  shall  be  able  to  deliver  the  Tax  Books 
to  the  Collectors 

The  Assessors  agreeable  to  requirement  attended  and  informed 
the  Town  that  they  hoped  to  compleat  that  Buissiness  in  about  ten 
Days 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Committee  relative  to  Subscriptions 
of  which  Mr.  Frazier  is  [438.]  Chairman,  be  desired  to  proceed 
in  Order  to  Compleat  the  Subscriptions 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  an  Addition  of  the  Persons  be  now 
made  to  said  Committee 

Voted  that  Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Allen  Otis  Esqr. 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
be  added  to  the  Committee  aforesaid  for  procuring  Subscriptions 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  being  the  11th.  Day  of  July  Ins1.  3. 
O:  Clock  Afternoon 

Tuesday  the  11th.  Day  of  July.  3.  O:  Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  borrow  Moneys  for  carrying  on  the 
War,  being  called  upon  to  make  Report,  acquainted  the  Town, 
that  they  had,  Suspended  offering  the  Subscription  Papers  to  the 
Inhabitants,  as  they  understood  the  Militia  Companies  of  the  sev- 
eral VVards,  were  assisting  said  Companies  for  the  purpose  of 
paying  the  Bounty  &c  to  the  Men  that  are  Inlisted.  &c.  as  a  Rein- 
forcement to  the  Continental  Army 

On  a  Motion.  Voted,  that  Col0  Proctor  be  directed  to  pay  to 
one  Major  two  Captains  and  four  Subaltron  officers  appointed  for 
ttie  Towns  proportion  of  the  Militia  to  be  inlisted  or  draughted 
[439.]  Agreeable  to  a  Resolve  of  the  General  Court  lately 
Passed,  Six  hundred  Pounds,  each  out  of  the  Monies  to  be  raised 
for  paying  the  Bounties  &c  to  the  Men  who  are  to  reinforce  the 
Continental  Army 

A  Motion  was  made,  that  an  Additional  Grant  of  £100,000  — 
be  now  made  for  the  sole  purpose  of  carrying  on  the  War.  —  the 
Motion  was  withdrawn,  on  account  of  another  Motion  made,  for 
an  Adjournment  [the  Meeting  bein  thire  illegible.^ 


146  City  Document  No.  80. 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall  be  to  Mon- 
day next  the  17th.  Day  of  July  Ins'.  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 
And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  the  17th.  Day  of  July  3.  OClock,  Afternoon  —  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  Col0.  Proctor  be  directed,  to  pay 
to  one  Major,  two  Captains  and  four  Subaltron  Officers  appointed 
over  the  Towns  proportion  of  the  Militia  raised  by  a  Resolve  of 
the  General  Assembly  lately  Passed  ;  Six  hundred  Pounds  each,  in 
addition  to  the  former  Grants  of  Six'  hundred  Pounds,  made  the 
seventh  of  July,  and  this  out  of  the  Moneys  to  be  raised  for  pay- 
ing the  Bounties  of  the  Men  raised  to  reinrforce  the  Continental 
Army 

Voted,  that  the  sum  of  Two  hundred  and  Fifty  thousand 
Pounds,  be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon  [440.]  Polls,  and  Estates,  within 
this  Town,  in  addition  to  the  Sum  of  three  hundred  Thousand 
Pounds  already  granted  by  the  Town  for  the  sole  purpose  of  car- 
rying on  the  War  the  same  to  be  added  to  the  next  Tax,  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  impowered 
and  directed  to  borrow  a  Sum  of  Money,  not  exceeding  Two  hun- 
dred and  Fifty  Thousand  Pounds  in  addition  to  the  Three  hundred 
Thousand  Pounds  already  Voted,  by  the  Town  for  the  Sole  pur- 
pose of  carrying  on  the  War,  and  that  said  Treasurer  give  his 
negotiable  Notes  to  the  respective  Lenders  on  Interest  for  the 
Sums  by  them  advanced,  the  Same  to  be  paid  out  of  the  Tax, 
already  Issued 

It  was  then  Moved,  that  this  Meeting  be  dessolved 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  dessolved 

[Several  entries  follow  out  of  chronological  order,  but  as  they 
appear  in  original.  —  W.  H.  W.] 

At  the  Adjournment  of  the  May  Meeting,  Wednesday  the  14th 
Day  of  June  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon 

General  Hancock  the  Moderator  of  the  Meeting,  and  Deacon 
Tudor  the  Moderator  Pro..Tem°.  not  attending  the  former  being 
Oblidged  to  attend  the  General  Assembly 

David  Jeffries  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator  during  the  absence 
of  General  Hancock  aud  Deacon  Tudor 

[441.]  On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Ad- 
journed to  the  Afternoon  4.  O. Clock,  in  hopes  of  a  more  general 
attendance  of  the  Inhabitants 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

4.  O'Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  according  to  Adjournment. 

As  very  few  of  the  Inhabitants  Attended,  a  Motion  was  made 
and  obtained,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to 
Fryday  the  16th  of  June  4.  O'. Clock  Afternoon. 

A  Motion  was  then  made  but  did  not  obtain,  that  the  Town 
now  proceed  to  the  consideration  of  proper  Allowances  to  the 
Schoolmasters,  &c. 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  4.  OClock  Afternoon 


Boston  Town  Records,   1780.  147 

Fryday  June  16th.  4.  O. Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

David  Jeffries  Esqr.  Moderator  Pro:  Tern0,  not  attending 
Deacon  Tudor  took  the  Chair 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it 
shall  be  to  Mondaj?  next.  4.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  advertize  in  the 
several  News  Papers,  the  time  to  which  Meeting  stands  Adjourned 
also  that  grants  of  Money  are  then  to  be  made  for  the  School- 
masters, for  their  Salaries  &c.  and  other  important  business  to  be 
Transacted 

[443.]  Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being  being  the  19th.  of 
June  Ins4.  4.  O. Clock  :  P:  M:  in  the  Afternoon 

Monday  June  19th.  4.  O. Clock  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  of  proper  and  Adequate 
Grants  to  the  School  Masters  ' — Reported  —  whereupon  a  Motion 
was  made  that  said  Report  be  now  taken  up  and  acted  upon  — 
and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  Passed  in  the  Negative 

The  Town  Treasurer  having  requested  that  he  might  be  im- 
powered  to  procure  at  the  Towns  Expence  printed  Blanks,  that 
greater  dispatch  may  be  made,  in  giving  Notes  to  the  respective 
Subscribers  for  the  Sums  by  them  Loaned  and  paid  into  the 
Town  Treasurey  for  the  purpose  of  paying  the  Men  to  be  raised 
as  a  reinforcement  to  the  Continental  Army,  their  Bounty,  Mileage 
&c  as  also  for  procuring  Shoes,  Stockings,  Shirts  and  Blankets  — 
the  Question  was  accordingly  put  —  and  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  being  the  23d.  of  June  Ins*.  3. 
O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

Fryday  June  23d.  3  OClock  in  the  Afternoon  —  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  the  Schoolmasters 
Salaries  being  again  read ;  the  same  as  Amended  by  the  Town  is 
as  follows  —  Viz4. 

[443.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  and  Report 
proper  and  adequate  Grants  to  the  Schoolmasters,  are  of  opinion 
—  that  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  Master  of  the  South  Gramer  School,  be 
allowed  in  Specie  the  Sum  of  Ninety  Pounds,  for  Six  Months 
Salary,  the  same  to  commence  the  first  of  March,  last,  or  a  Sum 
in  paper  Money  equal  to  the  Exchange,  said  Exchange  to  be  set- 
tled by  the  Selectmen  at  the  date  of  their  Draughts  for  payment 
according  to  the  rate  of  Gold  and  Silver  among  the  Merchants  — 
and  that  the  Master  of  the  North  Writing  School  have  an  Addi- 
tional allowance  of  fourteen  pounds  p  Annum  for  House  Rent,  or 
the  Exchange  as  aforesaid  —  And  that  all  the  Towns  School- 
masters, and  Ushers  receive  an  addition  to  their  Salaries  in  the 
same  proportion  and  manner 

Nathaniel  Appleton  p  Order. 

The  foregoing  Report  amended  having  been  again  read  —  the 


148  City  Document  No.  80. 

Question  was  put,  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed 
in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Town  will  support  the  Col- 
lectors of  Taxes  in  any  Advice  or  legal  Prosecutions  relative  to 
Collecting  of  Taxes  which  the  Selectmen  shall  Judge  to  be  neces- 
sary ;  and  the  Selectmen  are  directed  to  give  their  Draughts  on 
the  Town  Treasurer  for  any  charge  that  may  arise  thereon 

On  a  Motion  made.  Voted  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to 
consider  and  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting,  what 
Sum  it  is  necessary  for  the  Town  to  raise  in  order  to  defray  the 
Charges  &  Expencies  of  the  Current  year ;  as  also  what  will  be  a 
proper  and  [444.]  Adequate  Allowance  to  the  Assessors  for 
their  services 

Voted  that  Ebenezer  Storer  Esqr. 

William  Cooper 

Thomas  Daws  Esq*. 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 

Mr.  Samuel  Eliot 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  the  23d.  [sic']  Ins4.  4  O. Clock  in 
the  Afternoon 

Wednesday  June  28th.  [sic']  4.  O. Clock.  Afternoon  —  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  Sums  may  be  neces- 
sary for  the  Town  to  raise  to  defray  the  Charges  of  the  present 
Year,  as  also  what  will  be  a  proper  Allowance  to  the  Assessors 
for  their  servicies  —  Reported  whereupon  it  was  moved  and  Voted, 
that  the  consideration  of  this  Report  be  referred  to  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  Mor- 
mow.  12.  0. Clock  Forenoon 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned 

Wednesday  the  29th.  [sic]  Day  of  June  12.  O. Clock  Forenoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Deacon  Tudor 
in  the  Chair 

[445.]  The  several  Committees  chosen  by  the  Town  not 
being  able  to  Report  this  Forenoon  it  was  motioned  that  this 
Meeting,  be  Adjourned  to  5.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

5  O'Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  according  to  Adjournment 
The  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  allowance  to  the  As- 
ors  etc  was  again  read,  and  being  amended  by  the  Town  is  as 
follows  —  Viz'. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  Sums  maybe  neces- 
sary for  the  Town  to  raise  to  defrey  the  Charges  of  the  Present 
year,  as  also  what  will  be  a  proper  allowance  to  the  Assessors  for 
their  Services  —  beg  leave  to  Report 


Boston   Town   Records,  1780.  149 

That  they  have  attended  the  Business  and  on  due  consideration 
find  themselves  so  intirely  unacquainted  with  the  affairs  of  the 
Town  and  the  usual  Charges  especially  in  the  present  time,  as  to 
be  utterly  incompitent  to  Judge  of  the  Sura  necessary  to  be  raised, 
and  would  therefore  humbly  suggest  that  it  be  referred  to  the 
Gentelmen  Selectmen  and  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  who  are  much 
better  acquainted  with  the  State  of  the  Town,  and  consequently 
better  able  to  Judge  of  the  Sum  wanted 

The  Committee  further  Report,  That  in  their  Opinion  there 
ought  to  be  allowed  to  the  Assessors  from  the  2d.  of  February  last 
Sis  Shillings  p  Day  in  Silver  Money,  or  Paper  at  the  Rate  of 
Silver  and  Gold,  among  the  Merchants,  the  Exchange  to  be 
[446.]  The  same  as  was  the  Schoolmasters;  and  that  a  further 
allowance  of  Two  Thousand  Pounds,  at  least  ought  to  be  made 
them  for  being  kept  out  of  the  Sum  due  to  them  for  past  Services 

The  foregoing  Report  as  amended  having  been  again  read  — 
the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Three  hundred  thousand  Pounds  be 
raised  by  a  Tax  upon  Polls  and  Estates  within  this  Town  for  the 
Relief  of  the  Poor  and  defraying  other  necessary  Charges  ;  Fifty 
Thousand  Pounds  thereof  to  be  appropriated  for  the  support  of 
the  Almshouse  —  the  same  to  be  added  to  the  next  Tax 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  paid  his 
Salary  quarterly  as  the  Schoolmasters  are  drawn  for 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it 
shall  be  to  the  First  Tuesday  in  August  next  10.  O. Clock  P:  M: 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

August  1.  Tuesday  3.  0. Clock  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment 

Deacon  Tudor  and  Treasurer  Jeffries  the  Moderators  Pro  Tern0, 
being  absent 

[447.]  Honble,  Oliver  Wendell  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator 
Pro  Tem°. 

Cap'.  Ballard  one  of  the  Committee  relative  to  the  North 
Battery  Reported  Verbally,  whereby  it  appeared  that  the  Title  of 
the  Towns  Lands  at  the  North  Battery  was  clear  —  on  which  a 
Motion  was  made  and  carried 

That  the  Selectmen  be  desired  and  impowered  to  make  such 
an  improvement  of  the  Towns  Estate  at  the  North  Battery  as  to 
them  shall  appear  most  for  the  Interest  of  the  Town 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  draw  for  the  Sum 
of  Twenty  five  hundred  Pounds,  in  faviour  of  the  Town  Treasurer 
on  Account  of  his  Salary  the  Current  Year 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Draught  now  issued  by  the  Select- 
men in  faviour  of  the  Assessors  for  £20.700  to  be  paid  out  of 
the  first  Moneys  that  shall  be  received  into  the  Treasury,  or  that 
the  Treasurer  be  impowered  to  give  his  Negotiable  Notes  on 
Interest  for  said  Sum 

On  a  Motion  made  by  Mr.  Gray 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  give  the  Town  Clerk  a  draught  on  the 


150  City  Document  No.  80. 

Treasurer  for  three  thousand  Pounds  on  Account  of  his  Salary  for 
the  present  Year,  and  that  the  Treasurer  be  impowered  to  give  bis 
Negotiable  Notes  for  the  Same  on  Interest  if  desired 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  things  unfinished  be  referred  to  the 
Next  General  Town  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


[448.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Male  Inhabitants  of  the  Town 
of  Boston  of  Twenty  one  Years  of  Age  and  upwards,  qualified  as 
the  Constitution  prescribes  and  legally  warned  in  Publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneieul  Hall  on  Monday  the  4th.  Day  of 
September  A.D.  1780  —  9  O. Clock  A:  M 

Piayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Lotherop 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

A  Resolve  of  the  Convention  passed  the  16th.  Day  of  June  1780 
relative  to  the  choice  of  a  Governor,  Lieutenant  Governor,  and 
Six  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk  —  read 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Governor  with  the  Number  of  Votes,  for 
each  Person  —  Viz'. 

Votes. 

Honble.  James  Bowdoin  Esqr.       ------       64 

HonbIe.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.        ------         l 

Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.    -------     858 


923 


On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Town  will  now  come  to  the  choice 
of  a  Lieutenant  Governor 

It  was  then  declared  by  the  Selectmen,  that  no  Votes,  will  be 
received,  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they  purpose  the  Poll 
be  closed  at  One  O. Clock 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Lieutenant  Governor,  with  the  Number 
of  Votes  for  each  Person  Viz1. 

Votes. 

[449.]  Honble.  James  Bowdoin  Esqr.       ------  30 

Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 9 

Honble.  Jeremiah  Powell  Esqr.      ------  167 

Honble.  Benjamin  Greanleaff  Esqr, 2 

Honble.  Walter  Spooner 8 

Hon"le.  Artemas  Ward  -     -     -     - 14 

Honble.  William  Sever  Esqr.    -------  4 

Honblc.  Thomas  Gushing  Esq1".     ------  49 

Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.    -------  2 

Honb,e.  Oliver  Wendell  Esqr.  -------  3 

Honblc.  James  Warren  Esqr.    -------  1 

Honble.  John  Pitts  Esq.      --------  1 

William  Heath  Esqr.   - -  1 

Jonathan  Jackson  Esqr.   ------  3 

John  Lowell  Esqr.        15 

Azor  Orn  Esqr. 20 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr.  --------  4 


Boston   Town   Records,  1780.  151 

Votes 

Mr.  Edward  Green 1 

James  Sylliman  Esq1".  -------  2 

Mr.  William  Dennie     -------  i 

Mr.  Peter  Edes 2 


339 
Adjourned  to  4  O'Clock  P:  M: 

4  O. Clock  P:  M:    Met  according  to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  to  close  the  Poll  for  Senators,  at  6 
O'Clock 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  to  reconsider  the  foregoing  Vote, 
and  that  the  Poll  for  Senators  be  closed  at  half  past  Five  O'Clock 

[450.]  Persons  Voted,  for  as  Senators  for  the  County  of 
Suffolk  with  the  Number  of  Votes,  for  each  Person  —  Viz4. 

Votes. 

Honble.  Thomas  Cushing  Esqr.      -     -     -     -     -     -  234 

Honble.  Jeremiah  Powell  Esqr.      -     -     -     -     -     -  214 

HonbIe.  John  Pitts  Esqr.     --------  250 

Honble.  Jabez  Fisher  Esqr.       -------  275 

Honble.  Samuel  Nyles  Esqr.      -------  259 

Increase  Sumner  Esqr.      ------  259 

John  Lowell  Esq1".        ----_..  73 

Honble.  Benjamin  White  Esqr.      ------  6 

Honble.  James  Bowdoin  Esqr.       ------  31 

Houble.  Oliver  Wendell  Esqr.  -------  30 

Cotton  Tuffts  Esqr. 7 

Richard  Cranch  Esqr.       -_-_._  9 

Honble.  Benjamin  Austin  Esq'       ------  n 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr.       -------  4 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrel     -     -     -' 1 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr.     --------  4 

William  Tudor  Esqr. -  l 

Honble.  Henry  Gardner  Esqr. 2 

Mr.  Edward  Payne    -     -     -     - 1 

Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr. 2 

HonbIe.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.   -. 1 

Samuel  Broom  Esqr. --  l 

Mr.  Samuel  Deming 1 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 1 

Attested,  Copies  of  the  Persons  Voted  for  as  Governor  Leu'. 
Governor,  and  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk,  were  trans- 
mitted to  the  Secretary  of  this  State  and  the  Inclosed  sealed 
up  in  Town  Meeting,  Superscribed  as  follows  —  Viz1. 

For 
[451.]     The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
Secretary 

of  the  Commonwealth 

of  Massachusetts 
The  number  of  Votes,  of  the  Town  of  Boston  for  a  Governor, 


152  City  Document  No.  80. 

Lieutenant  Governor,  and  Six  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk, 
certified  within  and  Sealed  up  in  Town  Meeting 
Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  an  Other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Wednesday  the  11th. 
Day  of  October  Anno  Domini  1780 — 10  O'Clock  Forenoon 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Howard 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

A  Resolve  of  the  Convention  passed  the  16th.  Day  of  June 
1780 — relative  to  the  Choice  of  Governor,  Lieu1.  Governor 
Senators  and  Representatives  —  read 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  Seven  Persons  to 
Represent  them  in  the  Great  and  General  Court,  or  Assembly  to 
be  held  at  the  State  House  in  Boston  upon  Wednesday  the  25th. 
Day  of  October  Current. 

[452.]  Agreeable  to  a  Resolve  of  Convention  passed  the  16th. 
Day  of  June  last  —  The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly  directed,  to 
withdraw,  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  Seven  Representatives,  and 
then  it  was  Declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes  will  be  re- 
ceived, but  such  as  are  unfolded ;  and  that  they  propose  the  Poll 
shall  be  closed  at  12.  O. Clock 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  Seven  Representatives,  the 
number  of  the  same  were  found  to  be  One  hundred  Eighty  five  and 
upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that  the  following  Persons,  were 
chose  Viz1. 

Votes 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr.  --------  181 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr. -  178 

John  Lowell  Esq1. 181 

Thomas  W  alley  Esq1'.       172 

Samuel  Austin  Esqr.    -------  157 

John  Rowe  Esqr.    ------  -  179 

Samuel  Barrett  Esq1'.  -------  150 

The  choice  of  Representatives  being  over,  and  declared  by  the 
Selectmen  ;  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  in  order  that  the 
Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  Other  Affairs  Mentioned  in 
the  Warrant ;  accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew  and  brought 
in  their  Votes,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

John  Lowell  Esq1-. 
was  chosen  Moderator,  unanimously 

[453.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4.  —  "  To  consider  of 
the  Measures  that  shall  be  taken  for  procuring  Beef  for  the  Army 
in  conformity  to  a  Resolve  of  the  General  Assembly  passed  the 
25th.  of  September  last"  —  was  read — whereupon  it  was  moved 
and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  take  this  Mat- 
ter into  consideration  and  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meet- 
ing what  they  shall  Judge  best  to  be  done  thereon  —  also 


Boston   Town  Records,  1780.  153 

Voted,  that  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 

Stephen  Higginson  Esq1". 
Mr.  Samuel  Brick 

Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  whether  Instruc- 
tions shall  be  given  to  the  Representatives,  that  shall  be  chosen  " 
—  was  read,  and  after  some  debate  it  was  moved,  and  carried, 
that  the  further  consideration  thereof  be  referred  to  the  Ad- 
journment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  u  To  consider  whether  any 
Measures  shall  be  taken  relative  to  the  Towns,  Interest  at  South 
Battery."  — was  read  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  for  the  consideration 
of  this  Matter  and  to  Report  at  the  Adjournment 

[454„]  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  be  Adjourn'd  it  be  to 
Monday  next.  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  be  directed  to  Notify 
the  Inhabitants,  in  the  Thursdays  and  Mondays  Papers  of  the  Time 
to  which  this  Meeting  may  be  Adjourned,  and  that  business  which 
relates  to  the  Supply  of  the  Army  and  other  important  matters  are 
then  to  be  acted  upon  —  also 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being 
the  16th.  Instant.  10.  OClock 

Monday  October  16th.  10.  O. Clock  Forenoon  — Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  enjoin 
the  Attendance  of  four  Constables  at  least  with  the  Badge  of  their 
Office  at  all  Town  Meetings,  and  the  Adjournment  of  such 
Meetings. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  and  Report  some  Method 
to  be  Adopted  by  the  Town  to  enable  them  to  comply  with  a  Req- 
uisition of  the  General  Court  of  the  25th.  of  September  last  for 
supplying  the  Army  with  Beef  have  attended  that  service,  and 
Reported  accordingly  —  the  following  Votes,  in . coufornrily  to  said 
Report  were  passed  by  the  Town  Viz'. 

Whereas  an  immediate  complyance  with  the  Requisition  of  the 
25th.  of  September  last  for  supplying  the  Army  with  Beef  is  abso- 
lutely necessary  &  essential  [455.]  to  the  Safety  of  this  and  the 
United  States,  a  consideration  which  has  always  raised  and  ani- 
mated the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town  to  the  most  Manly  and  Spirited 
exertions,  and  as  the  Money  cannot  be  Collected  by  Taxes  in 
season  to  make  the  necessary  purchases  —  therefore 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  impowered 
and  directed  to  borrow  a  Sum  not  exceeding  Six  Thousand  two 
hundred  and  Fifty  pounds  of  the  new  Emission  —  and  to  induce 
Gentelmen  of  Property  the  more  readily  and  Speedily  to  advance 
their  Moneys,  and  as  an  allowance  for  any  inconvenience  the  Per- 


154  City  Document  No.  80. 

sons  lending  may  sustain  by  hastely  raising  the  Same  —  The 
Treasurer  is  hereby  directed  to  give  his  Notes  upon  Interest  pay- 
able in  three  Months  with  an  allowance  of  five  p  C*.  on  the  same, 
on  or  before  the  Thirteenth  Day  of  October  Ins1.  ;  said  Money  to 
be  appropriated  solely  for  the  complying  with  the  Requisition 
aforesaid,  and  for  carrying  on  the  War 

And  the  more  effectually  to  prevent  any  Injustice  being  done 
either  to  the  Town  or  the  Lender 

Voted,  that  the  Notes  given  by  the  Treasurer  shall  be  in  the 
form  following  —  Viz4. 

Boston  —  1780. 
In  pursuance  of  a  Vote  of  the  Town  passed  the  16th.  of  October, 
1780.  Borrowed  and  received  of:  A:  B.  the  sum  of  the  new 
Emission  to  enable  the  Town  to  comply  with  a  Requisition  of  the 
General  Court  of  the  25th.  of  September  last  to  procure  Beef  for 
the  Army ;  which  Sum  I  promise  to  repay  said  A:  B.  [456.]  Or 
Bearer  in  Three  Months  from  the  above  date,  with  Lawfull  Interest 
for  the  Same  till  paid,  the  sum  so  repaid  to  be  equal  in  value  to 
the  sum  received,  in  the  Judgement  of  the  Committee  appointed  by 
the  Town  to  determine  the  same 

Voted,  that  John  Scollay  Esqr. 

Mr.  Edward  Payne 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 

be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

And  whereas  Strict  Justice  as  well  as  the  strictest  policy  dictates 
that  the  Treasurer  should  be  enabled  punctually  to  discharge  said 
Notes  at  the  time  liinetted  for  Payment 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Two  hundred  and  Fifty  thousand  Pounds 
in  Continental  Bills  of  Credit  equal  to  the  sum  of  Six  Thousand  two 
hundred  and  Fifty  Pounds  of  the  new  Emission  be  immediately 
Assessed  on  the  Polls,  and  Estates  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town 
which  Sums  the  Assessors  are  hereby  directed  to  add  to  the  Town 
Tax  they  are  now  making  to  be  appropriated  soley  for  the  purpose 
aforesaid 

And  whereas  it  is  absolutely  necessary  that  the  Moneys  should 
be  immediately  Collected,  to  prevent  the  Town  being  subjected  to 
pay  a  large  fine  in  case  of  delay,  and  that  the  business  may  be  ex- 
pidited  as  much  as  possible 

Voted,  that  Stephen  Higginson 
Samuel  Breck 
Ellis  Gray 
[457.]  Samuel  Broom 

Leonard  Jarvis 
Isaac  Smith 
Josiah  Waters  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  apply  to  the  Inhabitants  for  an  Immediate  loan 
of  Money  to  the  Town  for  the  purposes  and  on  the  Conditions  as 
aforesaid  as  the  Treasurer  is  directed  to  employ  one  or  more  trusty 
Person  or  Persons  to  Collect  the  Money  that  may  be  Subscribed 
—  also 

Voted,  that  John  Lucas  Esqr. 
Cap1.  Amasa  Davis 
Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 


Boston   Town  Becords,  1780.  155 

be  a  Committee  to  receive  the  Money  of  the  Town  Treasurer  or 
such  part  of  it  as  shall  be  necessary  to  enable  the  Town  to  com- 
ply with  the  Requisition  aforesaid  and  pay  the  same  to  the  Com- 
mittee appointed  by  the  General  Court  to  purchase  Supplies  for 
the  Army  or  to  their  Order  taking  duplicate  Receipts  therefor 
Agreeable  to  the  directions  given  in  said  Resolve  of  the  General 
Court  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  and  they  hereby  are 
directed  to  take  the  Notes  given  by  the  Treasurer  for  the  above 
purpose  in  payment  for  the  Tax  levied  to  Redeem  said  Notes, 
Allowing  the  Interest  that  may  be  due  thereon,  and  the  Treasurer 
is  directed  to  receive  them  of  the  Collectors,  accordingly  in  pay- 
ment of  said  Tax 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  whether  any  Measures 
shall  be  taken  relative  to  the  Towns  Interest  at  the  South  Battery 
—  Reported  that  they  were  not  as  yet  able  to  Report  these  Matters 
at  large 

[458.]     Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  lay  before 
the  Town  at  the  next  General  Town  Meeting  a  State  of  the  Towns 
Real  Estate,  and    to   insert   in   the   Warrant   of  said   Meeting  a 
Clause  for  considering  the  expediency  of  disposing  of  any  part  of 
the  Towns  Lands  on  the  Neck  or  elsewhere 
Voted,  that  Richard  Devens  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Stephen  Higginson  Esq1. 
William  Cooper  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  prepare  Instructions  for  our  Representatives, 
and  Report  the  same  at  the  next  Meeting 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  unfinished  at  this  Meeting  be  referred 
over  to  the  next 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  this  Town  be  and 
hereby  are  given  to  the  Honble.  John  Hancock  Esqr.  for  his  ser- 
vices as  a  Representative  a  Number  of  years  past  —  The  Town  at 
the  same  Time  cannot  but  express  their  high  Satisfaction  of  the 
present  of  his  being  Seen  in  a  Department  of  this  Commonwealth, 
where  his  Ability  and  disinterested  Zeal  for  the  Securiety  and 
wellfare  of  this,  and  the  other  United  States  may  be  more  con- 
spicuously displayed,  than  in  any  Office  that  is  within  the  power 
of  this  Town  alone  to  bestow  —  also  Voted  that  the  Town  Clerk 
present  him  with  an  attested  Copy  of  this  Vote 

[459.]     Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  Other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  at  Faneuil  Hall  Monday  the  30th.  Day  of  October 
1780 

The  Inhabitants  met,  and  it  appearing  that  there  had  been  an 
omission  of  the  Constables  in  not  warning  Ward  N°.  1.  the  Meet- 
ing was  consequently  set  aside 


156  Crrr  Document  No.  80. 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston   duly  qualified   and  legally  warned,   in    publick 
Town  Meeting,  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Thursday  the  2d. 
Day  of  November  Anno  Domini  1780 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  Sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Ellis  Gray  Esq1,  was  chosen  Moderator 
The   Committee   appointed    at    a    late    Meeting    to    prepare    a 
Draught  of  Instructions  for  our   Representatives  in    General  As- 
sembly Reported  the  following  Draught  —  Viz1. 
[460.]  To  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 

John  Lowell  Esqr. 

Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley 

Mr.  Samuel  Austin 

John  Rowe  Esq1,  and 

Samuel  Barrett   Esqr. 
Gentlemen 

Your  Appointment  at  this  important  Crisis  is  a  high  Testimoney 
of  the  Publick  Affection,  to  you,  and  of  their  confidence  in  your 
abilities  and  integrity :  But  as  we  judge  you  wish  to  feel  your- 
selves supported  by  your  constituents  in  the  Discharge  of  your 
Duty,  we  have  seen  fit  to  give  you  the  following  Instructions ; 
And  we  Depend  upon  the  utmost  exertion  of  your  influence  to 
carry  them  into  effect.  We  are  now  entered  upon  a  new  form  of 
Government,  and  from  the  excellency  of  its  constitution,  if  rightly 
administred,  we  might  promise  ourselves  much  Publick  felicity. 
—  But  our  existence  under  any  forms  of  freedom  or  happiness, 
depending  upon  our  success  against  that  Power  whose  yoke  we 
have  shaken  Off,  we  consider  an  Attention  to  the  Army  as  a 
Matter  of  the  highest  importance  to  us,  and  what  ought  to  be  the 
first  Object  of  your  regards :  —  We  therefore,  most  solemly 
enjoin  it  upon  you  to  take  immediate  steps  for  filling  up  our 
quota  during  the  War  ;  and  to  provide  for  the  Supply  of  every 
thing  necessary  for  the  comfort  &  Convenience  of  both  Officers 
and  Men  ;  — and  we  conceive  that  it  is  highly  expedient  that  their 
pay  henceforth  be  made  in  Gold  or  Silver  [461.]  And  all  prom- 
ises to  them  punctually  Complied  with  ;  —  even  a  Momentary  in- 
attention to  their  wants  we  consider  as  highly  criminal 

At  a  Time  when  our  resources,  our  Alliances  and  abilities  are 
greater  than  ever,  we  behold  the  independance  of  our  country 
wounded' and  strugling  under  the  loss  of  Publick  Faith,  without 
enquiring  into  the  Policy  of  former  Administrations,  or  crimi- 
nating them  or  ourselves  for  mistaken  ideas  of  finance,  — we  con- 
ceive that  Publick,  and  Private  credit  rests  upon  the  same  basis 
of  integrity  and  honour,  of  ecconimy  and  punctuality  :  — and  we 
instruct  you  to  revise  all  the  Laws  now  existing  with  Respect  to 
our  paper  currency,  and  to  use  your  influence  to  Obtain  a  Repeal 
of  any  part  of  them  which  may  appear  inconsistent  with  these 
principles. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1780.  157 

Taught  by  experience,  that  all  land  embargoes,  all  commei'cial 
restrictions  between  the  several  States,  are  contrary  of  Sound 
policy  and  those  social,  and  Friendly  principles  which  unite  our 
common  Interest,  we  direct  you  by  no  means  to  consent  to  them 
—  On  the  Other  hand,  we  have  Seen  with  concern,  an  ellicit 
Trade  carrying  on  with  our  inveterate  Enemies,  this  we  conceive 
to  be  highly  opposed  to  all  the  Principles  of  Policy  and  Wisdom, 
inconsistant  with  our  Pretentions,  injurious  to  our  generious  Allies, 
and  what  ought  to  be  prohibited  under  the  severiest  penalties. 

The  frequent  escape  of  Prisoners  of  War  is  so  alarming  —  in  it- 
self, and  so  dishonourable  to  our  police,  as  to  require  an  imme- 
diate Remedy  —  we  Object  not  to  their  enjoying  all  the  Priviledges 
of  humanity  which  their  Situation  and  ours  will  Admit  of  ;  [462.] 
But  surely  these  ought  not  to  operate  as  a  facility  of  escaping  so 
injurious  and  disreputable  to  us 

The  protection  of  our  two  long  neglected  sea  coasts,  is  so 
important,  and  what  comes  so  Naturally  under  the  concern  of  the 
Representatives  of  a  commercial  City,  that  we  think  it  needless  to 
Instruct  you  upon  it.  An  enquirey  into  the  State  of  the  Treasury, 
and  a  frequent  Adjustment  of  that  and  all  other  Publick  Accounts. 
A  knowlidge  of  the  Publick  debts,  and  the  provissions,  made  for 
the  Discharge  of  them,  are  certainly  within  the  Line  of  your  Duty. 

Cultivate  a  frequent  correspondence  with  our  Sister  States, 
acquaint  yourselves  with  their  Wants  and  resources,  by  a  reciproc- 
ity of  Good  Offices,  Mutual  Affection  will  be  encreased,  and  by 
a  union  of  force  the  Designes  of  our  enemies  will  be  Defeated. 

In  a  Word,  make  our  most  excellent  Constitution  the  Rule  of 
your  Conduct ;  be  governed  by  its  principles,  and  permit  no  law 
contrary  to  them  to  take  place  ;  cherish  the  Interest  of  literature 
and  the  sciences,  of  Virtue  and  piety ;  and  you  cannot  fail  of 
that  highest  reward  in  a  republick,  the  approbation  of  your  Fellow 
Citizens 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  &  considered ;  the 
Question  was  put  —  Viz'.  —  Whether  the  Same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  To  receive  the  Report  of  the 
Committee  appointed  to  obtain  Subscriptions  for  procuring  Beef 
for  the  Army "  was  read,  and  the  Committee  having  Reported 
verbally;  were  enjoined  [463.]  To  proceed,  in  filling  up  the 
Subscription  Paper   [duplicate  entry  in  original.  —  W.  H.  W] 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz'. — To  receive  the  Report  of 
the  Committee  appointed  to  Obtain — Subscriptions  for  procuring 
Beef  for  the  Army."  was  read,  and  the  Committee  having  Re- 
ported verbally :  were  enjoined  to  proceed,  in  filling  up  the 
Subscription  Paper. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  To  consider  what  Measures 
shall  be  taken  with  respect  to  several  Persons  who  are  taxed  in 
this  town  while  Resident  in  other  Towns  "  —  was  read  —  where- 
upon—  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen,  be  and  hereby  are  Authorized, 
and  impowered,  to  settle  these  disputes  b}-  referrence  or  other- 
ways 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider,  the  Petition  of 


158  City  Document  No.  80. 

Cap'.  Gustavers  Fellows,  that  he  may  be  paid  what  is  clue  to  hirn 
from  the  Town  in  Moneys  equal  in  value  to  the  Money  he  has 
advanced  "  —  was  read,  whereupon  —  Voted,  that 

John  Scollay  Esq1". 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  . 

Mr.  Edward  Payne 
be  a  Committee   to  examine  his    Account,  and   determine   what 
Money  is  due  to  him  in  equity 

The  Article  in  the  "Warrant  Viz1.  —  To  consider  of  the  ex- 
pediency of  disposing  of  any,  part  of  the  Towns  Lands  on  the 
Neck  or  elsewhere — read  —  whereupon  after  some  debate,  it  was 
moved  and  carried,  that  the  further  consideration  of  this  Matter 
be  referred  to  the  Annual  Town  Meeting  in  March  next 

[464.]  On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed 
to  prepare  an  Address  to  his  Excellency  John  Hancock  Esqr.  con- 
gratulating him  on  his  late  appointment  to  the  Chief  Seat  of 
Government  in  this  Commonwealth —  &c. 

Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esq1',  the  Moderator 

William  Cooper 

John  Brown 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 

Mr.  Tuttle  Hubbard 

David  Jeffries  Esqr. 

William  Tudor  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 
Adjourned  to  Saturday  next.  11.  O'Clock 

Saturday  November  4th.  Met  According  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  draught  an  Address  to  His  Excel- 
lency Governor  Hancock,  on  his  advancement  to  the  chief  Seat  of 
Government  in  this  Commonwealth  Reported  as  follows  Viz1. 

May  it  please  your  Excellency 

The  Freeholders  &  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston,  in  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  with  great  respect  and  Sincere  pleasure  take 
this  early  apportunity  to  congratulate  your  Excellency  on  your 
Appointment  as  first  Governor  of  the  Commonwealth  of  Massa- 
chusetts, by  the  almost  unanimous  Sufferages  of  the  People  — 

[465.]  The  early  and  decisive  part  taken  by  your  Excellency 
at  the  commencement  of  the  present  contest  —  the  warmth  of  your 
patriotick  Affection  evinced  in  the  sacrifises  you  have  made,  and 
the  great  Assiduity  with  which  you  have  discharged  the  various 
Trusts,  reposed  in  you,  affords  the  brightest  prospect,  that  your 
Talents  will  still  be  employed,  with  honor  &  Success,  in  promoting 
the  security  and  Wellfare  of  this  &  the  Other  United  States. 

That  generous  concern  you  have  always  expressed  for  the  In- 
terest of  this  Metropolis,  is  a  pleasing  pledge  that  the  Interest 
with  which  the  general  Good  is  so  nearly  connected,  will  now  be 
more  peculiarly  taken  under  your  Excellencies,  patronage  and 
protection 

Your  Excellency  may  rely  upon  our  contributing  every  thing  in 
our  power  to  promote  the  ease  &  happiness  of  your  Administra- 
tion 


Boston  Town  Kecords,  1780.  159 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  —  Viz1.  —  Whether  the  Town  will  accept  the 
Same  —  passed  in  the  Affermative,  unanimously  —  also  — 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  prepare  a  fair  draught  of  this 
Address  &  that 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr.  Moderator 
William  Cooper 
John  Brown 
Ezekiel  Price 
Tuttle  Hubbard 
David  Jeffries 
William  Tudor  Esqr. 
[466.]     Be  and  hereby  are   appointed  a  Committee  to  wait 
upon  his  Excellency,  and  in  the  name  of  the  Town,  to  present  him 
with  said  Address 

On  a  Motion  made  —  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to 
the  14th  Day  of  November  next  —  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

Tuesday  November  14th.  1780.  3.  O. Clock  P:  M:  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Gray  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  having,  acquainted  the 
Town  that  he  was  so  unwell  as  not  to  be  able  to  give  his  attendance 
at  this  Meeting 

The  Inhabitants  were  then  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes,  for  a  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro  :  Tern0. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  present  the  Address  of  the  Town 
to  his  Excellency  the  Governer  reported,  that  his  Excellency  was 
pleased  to  Return  the  following  Answer  —  Viz4. 
Mr.  Moderator  and  Gentlemen 

The  high  esteem  in  which  I  have  always  held  the  respectable  In- 
habitants of  the  Town  of  Boston,  hightens  the  pleasure  with  which 
I  receive  their  kind  and  Affectionate  Address.  —  To  their  cander 
[467.]  and  good  Will  I  am  indebted  for  my  first  appearance 
in  publick  Character,  and  this  debt  is  greatley  enlarged  by  their 
kind  acceptance  of  my  feeble  efforts,  to  promote  the  securiety  and 
wellfare  of  this  and  the  Other  United  States  —  The  assurance  of 
their  support  in  the  discharge  of  the  important  trust  now  reposed 
in  me  by  the  People  of  this  Commonwealth,  is  greatly  animating 
and  demands  my  gratitude  —  It  must  ever  be  my  iuclination  and 
study,  as  it  is  my  indisputable  duty,  to  promote  as  far  as  I  am 
able,  the  prosperity  of  this  Metropolis,  with  which  the  general 
Good  is  so  nearly  connected  ;  and  the  Success  of  every  Measure 
for  this  purpose,  will  Add  to  my  happiness 
Boston   November  6th.  1780. 

John  Hancock 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  the  Petition  of  Cap4.  Gus- 
tavus  Fellows  that  he  may  be  paid  what  is  due  to  him  from  the 
Town,  in  Monies  equal  in  value  to  the  Money  he  has  Advanced  " 
—  Reported  and  after  some  debate  had  thereon,  it  was  Moved  and 


160  City  Document  No.  80. 

Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this  Petition  be  referred  over  to 
the  Adjournment 

The  Meeting  was  then  Adjourned  to  Fry  day  next —  8.  O. Clock 
in  the  Afternoon 

Fryday  the  17th.  Day  of  November  1780.  3.  O.Clock  P:M: 
Met  according  to  Adjournment  — 

Mr.  Gray  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  the  demands  of  Cap1. 
Gustavus  Fellows,  and  determine  [468.]  what  Moneys  is  due  to 
him  in  equity,  the  Sum  of  Twenty  one  Thousand  one  hundred  and 
forty  eight  Pounds  nine  Shillings  and  two  pence  Money  of  the  Old 
Emission  for  Moneys  by  him  Advanced  for  the  Town  —  Also  that 
there  is  due  to  him  the  Sum  of  twelve  Thousand  eight  hundred  and 
Ninety  five  pounds,  nine  Shillings  and  two  pence,  being  the  real 
depreciation  of  Currant  Money  —  between  October  1778.  when 
Cap4.  Fellows  lent  the  Town  —  Fourteen  hundred  and  Five  pounds 
Ten  Shillings,  the  25th.  June  1779  — the  time  he  received  it 

John  Scollay.  Ezekiel  Price 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  Viz'.  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  things  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  next  General  Town  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  an  Other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legaley  warned  ;  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  12th. 
Day  of  December  A:  D:  1780 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting — read 

[4691]  The  Inhabitants  having  given  their  Votes  for  a 
Moderator,  and  the  same  being  sorted  &c  —  it  appeared,  that 

John  Lowell  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

Resolve  of  the  General  Assembly  relative  to  raising  Recruits  for 
the  Continental  Army  —  read 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz1.  —  "  To  agree  and  determine 
upon  the  best  and  most  efficatious  Means  for  the  speedy  raising 
this  Towns  proportion  of  effective  Men  for  the  Continental  Army 
as  pointed  out  and  recommended,  by  the  Resolve  aforesaid  "  — 
was  read,  and  after  considerable  debate,  it  was  Moved  and  Voted, 
that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  take  the  Resolve  of  the  General 
Court  for  raising  this  Towns  proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental 
Army  into  Consideration,  and  Report  what  Measures  they  shall 
Judge  best  to  he  adopted  by  the  Town  for  carrying  the  same  into 
speedy  execution  —  also 

Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Col0.  Proctor 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
Cap'.  Sarson  Belcher 


Boston   Town   Records,  1780.  161 

Col0.  Daws 
Dr.  Jarvis 

Col0.  Joseph  Webb 
Cap4.  Amasa  Davis 
John  Greenough  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

[470.]     On   a   Motion    Voted,    that   when   this    Meeting   is 
Adjourned,  it  be  Adjourned  to  to  Morrow  Afternoon,  3.  O'CIock 
then  to  meet  at  the  Representatives  Chamber 
Then  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


Wednesday  December  the  13th.  3.  O. Clock  P:  M:  met  at  the 
Representatives  Chamber  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  prepare  a  plan  for  raising  this 
Towns  proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army,  Agreeable  to 
the  Resolve  of  the  General  Court  of  the  2d.  Day  of  December 
Instant  Report  as  their  Opinion,  that  the  same  be  raised  in  the 
following  Manner  —  Viz'. 

That  the  one  hundred  and  Eighty  one  Men  required  be  appor- 
tioned on  the  several  Wards  of  the  Town  in  the  proportion  here- 
after stated  —  Viz1. 

Ward N°.     1  -     -     -     -  3  Men 

Ward  ------  2  -     -     -     -  5 

Ward  ------  3  .....  6 

Ward  ------  4  ....  8 

Ward  -------  5  ....  8 

Ward  ------  6  -     -     -     -  17 

Ward  ------  7  ....  12 

Ward  ------  8  -     -     -     -  19 

Ward  ------  9  ....  28 

Ward  ------  io  ....  26 

Ward  ------  11  -     -     -     -  26 

Ward -  1 2  -     -     -     -  23 

[471.]  And  that  a  Committee  be  chosen  of  two  Persons  in 
each  Ward,  and  another  at  Large  for  each  Ward  to  Class  the 
several  Inhabitants  in  the  respective  Wards,  into  as  many  Classes, 
as  there  are  Soldiers  to  be  raised  in  each  Ward,  and  to  form  their 
Classes  in  such  manner  as  to  make  the  Several  Classes  as  nearly 
equal  in  property  and  in  number  of  Polls,  as  may  be  with  conven- 
ience and  that  the  business  be  immediately  done  &  Report  made 
to  the  Town  for  their  acceptance  at  a  very  short  Adjournment 

John  Lowell  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  —  after  longe  debate 
had  thereon  the  Question  was  put  —  Viz'.  "  Whether  this  Report 
shall  be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative  —  also 

Ward 

Voted,  that  John  R.  Sigoney     -- -     -     -     1. 

Cap'.  Silas  Atkins 
Col°.  Proctor 


162  City  Document  No.  80. 

"Ward 

Capt  Elias  Parkrnan -2. 

Mr.  Henry  Robey 
Col0.  Syrmns 

Cap1.  John  Wells -     3. 

Cap*.  Nath1.  Fellows 
Mr.  Daniel  Parker 

Mr.  Samuel  Parkrnan -     -     4. 

Col0.  Francis  Shaw 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 

Cap1.  William  Mackey 5. 

Cap1.  John  Pulling 
Col0.  Nathaniel  Barber 

Ward 

[472.]  Deacon  Samuel  Barret 6. 

Mr.  Moses  Grant 

Cap'.  Alexander  Hodgden 

Mr.  Nathan  Frazier       ---------     7 

Cap'.  Job  Prince  Senr. 
Eliis  Gray  Esqr. 

Cap'.  John  Langdon ---8 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr.   -------- 

Joseph  Barrell  Esqr. 

Mr.  Barth0.  Kneeland 9. 

Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
Cap'.  Sarson  Belcher 

Thomas  Walley -  10. 

Col0.  Joseph  Webb 
Col0.  Thomas  Daws 

Mr.  John  Tileston  11 

Mr.  Joseph  Peirce 
Deacon  John  Preston 

John  Lucas  Esqr.  12 

Mr.  Harman  Brimmer 
Col0.  Josiah   Waters 

be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Class,  the  several 
Wards,  as  permitted  by  a  late  Resolve  of  the  General  Assembly  of 
this  Commonwealth  relative  to  raising  Men  for  the  Continental 
Army  passed  the  29th.  of  November  last 

[473.]  On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committtee  be  now  appointed 
to  consider  and  Report,  the  best  plan  for  inli sting  this  Towns  pro- 
portion of  the  Continental  Army 


Boston  Town   Records,  1780.  163 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Proctor 

Col0.  Joseph  Webb 
Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
Cap1.  Gowan  Brown 
Major  Melville 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  to  Report  as  Soon  as  may 
be 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Constables  of  the  Town,  be  di- 
rected to  Notify  the  foregoing  Committee  to  meet  at  the  Select- 
mens  Chamber  to  Morrow  Morning  9.  O. Clock.  Forenoon 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Assessors  and  Collectors  of  Taxes, 
be  desired  to  let  the  Committee  for  Classing  the  Inhabitants  have 
the  use  of  their  Books,  as  they  may  have  occasion 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon  then  to  meet 
at  the  Representatives  Chamber 

Fryday  the  15th.  Day  of  December  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon,  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  of  Five  appointed  to  devise  a  plan  for  the  Rais- 
ing this  Towns  Proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army  — 
Reported  and  the  same  being  read,  and  debate  had  thereon,  it  was 
motioned  and  carried  that  the  further  Consideration  of  the  [474.] 
Report,  be  referred,  till  the  Committee  for  Classing  have  made 
Report 

The  Reports  of  the  12  Committees  appointed  for  Classing  the 
Inhabitants  in  the  several  Wards  was  laid  before  the  Town  by  the 
respective  Committees,  and  the  same  having  been' read  and  Con- 
sidered—  whereupon  Voted,  that  the  Several  Reports,  be  accepted, 
saving  those  of  the  Committees  for  Wards  N°.  8.  9.  &  10  which 
were  amended  ;  and  the  Question  being  put  Viz*.  Whether  the  said 
Reports  as  amended  be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  of  Five  relative  to  the  best  method 
of  Inlisting  this  Towns  proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental 
Army  again  taken  up  and  after  considerable  debate  had  thereon — - 
it  was 

Voted,  that  this  Report  be  Committed  to  a  Committee  now  to  be 
chosen,  who  are  desired  to  take  it  into  a  new  draught  and  Report 
to  the  Town  as  soon  as  may  be  also 

Voted,  that  Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Ellis  Gray  Esq". 
Mr.  Joseph  Peirce 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  foregoing  Committee  having  Reported,  and  the  Same  being 
read  and  considered,  after  some  Amendments,  &c  agreeable  to 
said  Report,  —  it  was 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Josiah  Waters 
John  Lucas  Esq1'. 

[475.]  Leonard  Jarvis  Esqr. 

Major  Thomas  Melville 
Cap'.  Alexander  Hodgden 
be  a  Superintending  Committee  for  the  Purpose  of  Inlisting  Men 
for  such  Classes  as  may  be  delinquent,  or  such  Classes  as  may  de- 
sire the  same  ;  and  that  the  said  Committee  shall  have  Power  to 


164  City  Document  No.  80. 

discharge  any  Class  upon  the  Receipt  of  a  Man  who  has  passed 
Muster,  or  the  payment  of  such  Sums  of  Money  as  in  the  Estima- 
tion of  said  Committee  shall  be  sufficient  to  procure  a  Man  for  said 
Class  ;  and  also  to  discharge  any  Person  belonging  to  any  Class 
who  shall  pay  his  proportionable  part  of  such  Sums  as  the  said 
Committee  shall  determin  to  be  sufficient  to  procure  a  Man  for 
said  Class. 

Voted,  that  the  said  Committee  shall  have  power  to  give  such 
encouragement  as  they  shall  see  necessary  either  of  Monie  or 
Clothes  or  both,  by  appointing  a  Rendezvous  or  Recruting  Officer 
or  any  other  way  their  Judgement  shall  direct 

Voted,  that  said  Committee  open  the  Enlistment  on  Reciet  of 
any  Soldier  from  any  Class  shall  deliver  him  over  to  the  Superin- 
tendent of  the  County,  and  take  his  Receipt  for  the  same  —  also 

Voted,  that  this  Committee  be  generously  rewarded  for  their 
Servicies 

Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being  the  18th.  Ins*.  3.  O. Clock  in 
the  Afternoon 

[476.]  Monday  3.  Clock  Afternoon  met  according  to  Ad- 
journment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "To  take  into  consideration 
the  Request  of  the  Town  Schoolmasters,  that  the  Town  will  deter- 
mine the  Sum  they  are  to  receive  for  their  services  from  the  first 
of  September  last  to  the  First  of  March  next  "  —  was  read,  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 

Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
be  a  Committee  to  take  this  Matter  into  Consideration,  and  Report 
as  soon  as  may  be 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'. — "To  consider  what  is 
proper  to  be  done  for  the  accommodating  of  the  Youth  of  the 
South  part  of  the  Town  with  a  School  House  in  the  Room  of  one 
lately  consumed  by  Fire  "  —  was  read,  and  considered  whereupon 

Voted  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  Apply  to  William  Den- 
nie  for  the  hire  of  the  Large  Room  in  the  Manufactory  House 
lately  purchased  by  him,- for  the  accommodation  of  the  Youth  of 
the  South  part  of  the  Town  with  a  School  House 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what  steps  are 
necessary  for  procuring  Blankets  Shirts,  Shoes,  and  Stockings, 
for  the  Army,"  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  issue  his  Execu- 
tion against  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  [477.]  before  the  1*.  of 
January  next  for  all  such  Sums  as  reinaine  due  of  the  Taxes  com- 
mitted to  them  to  Collect,  previous  to  the  last  Silver  Money  Tax 
—  also 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  make  enquirey  of  the 
Treasurer  and  Collectors  of  Taxes,   what  Sums  are  now  due  as 
outstanding  Taxes,  that  are  likely  to  be  received — also 
Voted,  that  Isaac  Smith  Ksqr. 

Samuel  Hendley  EsqT. 
Mr.  John  Lowell 


Boston  Town   Records,  1780.  165 

be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  to  make  Report  as  sooa 
as  may  be 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4.  "  To  consider  of  the  Request 
of  Messrs.  Farrington  and  Davis,  that  Part  of  the  Brick  Wall  of 
what  is  called  the  Fortification,  may  be  taken  down  for  their 
accomodation  "  was  read  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consider  the  expe- 
diency of  this  proposal ;  first  consulting  his  Excellency  thereon, 
and  to  make  Report  as  soon  as  may  be  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose 
aforesaid 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  procure 
Blankets,  Shirts,  Shoes  and  Stockings  for  the  Army,  as  soon  as 
may  be  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Treasurer  give  his  notes  therefor,  payable  in 
Silver  and  Gold  or  Paper  at  the  Current  Exchange  out  of  the  next 
Tax  if  there  is  not  a  sufficiently  [478.]  Of  the  present  for  that 
purpose,  said  notes  to  carry  an    Interest 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  any  Ward  which  is  called  upon  for  a 
greater  number  of  Men  than  is  Agreeable  to  theire  proportion  of 
the  Publick  Taxes,  shall  be  allowed  out  of  the  Town  Treasurey 
the  cost  of  every  Man    so  levied 

Voted,  that  the  Deliquent  Classes  or  Individuals  in  a  Class 
shall  be  Taxed  fifty  p  cent  over  and  above  the  charge  of  procuring 
their  proportion  of  Men 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  Things  which  remaine  unfinished 
at  this  Meeting  be  reff erred  over  to  the  next  Town  Meeting  then  to 
be  acted  upon 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders,  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legaly  Warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Fryday  the  22d.  Day  of 
December  Anno  Domini   1780.     3.  O. Clock  Afternoon 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting,  read 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  a  Moderator  by  a  hand 
Vote  a  Nomination  was  called  for  —  and  it  Appeared  that  Thomas 
Dawes  Esqr.  —  was  chosen  Moderator  of  the  Meeting 
[479.]  Thomas  Dawes  Esqr.  in  the  Chair 
The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz1.  "  To  consider  and  determine 
upon  the  best  and  most  expeditious  Measures  for  procuring  this 
Towns  proportion  of  Beef  for  the  Continental  Army  as  required 
by  a  Resolve  of  the  General  Court  passed,  the  4th.  December 
Instant  —  was  read  —  also  the  Resolve  of  the  General  Court, 
aforementioned  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
•    Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Brick 


166  City  Document  No.  80. 

Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
be  a  Committee  to  take  this  Matter  into  consideration,  and  Report 
what  they  apprehend  is  the  best  Measures  to  be  taker)  as  soon  as 
may  be 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  To  Grant  such  further  Sums 
of  Money  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  on  the  Wars  "  as  may 
be  Judged  necessary  —  was  read 

The  Committee  appointed  the  18  Instant  "  to  make  enquirey  of 
the  Town  Treasurer  and  Collectors  of  Taxes,  what  Sums  are  due 
for  outstanding  Taxes,  that  are  likely  to  be  received  "  —  having 
attended  that  service  beg  leave  to  Report 

That  they  find  due  to  the  Several  Collectors  in  this  Town,  about 
two  hundred  and  forty  Thousand  Pounds,  out  of  which  Sum  Mr. 
Thompson  supposes  thirty  Thousand  Founds  may  be  soon  Col- 
lected by  Mm  —  Mr.  Sumner  about  ten  Thousand  Pounds — Mr. 
Torrey  [480.]  Twenty  five  Thousand  Pounds,  and  Mr.  Shaw 
Twenty  Thousand  Pounds — All  which  is  Humbly  Submitted 

Isaac  Smith  p  Order 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  impowered  to 
imploy  an  Assistant  at  the  Charge  of  the  Town,  to  assist  in  taking 
out  a  true  State  of  the  Treasury  to  make  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment as  soon  as  may  be 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Collectors  be  directed  to  exhibit  to 
the  Committee  to  enquire  of  them  &c  the  amount  of  the  Notes 
they  have  on  hand,  and  what  others  they  are  to  receive  in  the  Sev- 
eral Wards 

The  Committee  relative  to  Persons  who  are  Taxed  in  other 
Towns  as  well  as  this  Town  Reported  Verbally,  with  respect  to 
Col0.  Sears  Tax,  whereby  it  appeared  that  Col0.  Sears  had  paid 
his  Taxes  both  for  his  Real  Estate  and  Faculty  to  the  Town  of 
Roxbury 

Adjourned  to  the  26th.  of  December  3.  O. Clock  —  Afternoon 


Tuesday  the  26th  of  December  3.  O. Clock — Afternoon  —  met 
according  to  Adjournment 

Col0.  Daws  in  the  Chair 
The  Committee  relative  to  Beef,  being  called  upon  to  Report, 
they  Acquainted  the  Town,  that  they  were  not  able  to  Report,  at 
this  Meeting  —  whereupon  the  Town  came  into  the  following  Vote 
—  Viz'. 

[481.]  Whereas  there  is  still  a  difficulty  in  the  Monies  Voted 
to  he  raised  for  paying  this  Towns  proportion  of  Beef  for  the  Con- 
tinental Army  —  therefore 

Voted  that  the  Collectors  be  enjoined  to  Collect  the  first  Beef 
Tax  immediately,  and  to  pay  the  same  into  the  Treasurery,  for 
the  sole  purpose  for  procuring  said  Beef,  also 
Voted,  that  Deacon  John  Simkins 
Mr.  Isaac  Peirce 
Mr.  James  Bridgham 
be  a  Committee  to  waite  upon  the  several  Collectors  with  a  Copy 


Boston   Town   Records,   1780.  167 

of  this  Vote,  and  that  they  Press  upon  them,  the  necessity  of  their 
immediately  proceeding  in  this  business 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Assessors  be  directed  to  Attend  at 
the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr.  one  of  the  Committee  relative  to  Beef  having 
for  Reasons  which  he  offered,  been  excused,  from  serving  further 
on  that  Committee 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
was  appointed  in  his  room  — 

Samuel  Barrett  Esqr.  being  excused  from  serving  on  the  Com- 
mittee aforesaid  — 

Col0.  Tudor 
was  appointed  in  his  room — 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  cause  the  several 
Committees  to  be  Notified  of  this  intended  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting 

[482.]     Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon 


Fryday  December  29th.  3.  O'Clock  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Ad- 
journment 

Col0.  Dawes,  the  Moderator  being  absent  and  having  acquainted 
the  Town  that  he  was  not  able  to  attend 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  and  Report  what  steps 
are  necessary  to  be  taken  by  the  Town,  to  enable  them  to  comply 
with'  a  Requisition  of  the  General  Court  of  the  4th.  Instant,  for 
supplying  the  Army  with  Beef  —  Reported  —  and  in  conformity 
to  said  Report,  the  following  Votes  were  passed  by  the  Town  — 
Viz1. 

Whereas  it  is  of  the  utmost  importance  that  the  Town  should 
forthwith  comply  with  the  Requisition  of  the  General  Court  of  the 
4th.  Instant  for  procuring  Beef  for  the  Army  and  whereas  the 
Money  cannot  be  Collected  by  Taxes  in  Season  to  make  the  neces- 
sary purchases  —  therefore 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  is  hereby  impowered 
and  directed  to  borrow  a  Sum  not  exceeding  Nine  thousand  Pounds 
lawful  Money  of  the  New  Emission ;  and  that  Gentelmeu  of 
Property  may  be  induced  more  redily  and  Speedily  to  advance 
[483.]  their  Monies,  and  as  an  allowance  for  any  inconvenience 
the  Person  lending  may  sustain,  by  hastily  raising  the  same 

Voted,  "  that  the  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  directed  to  give 
notes  upon  Interest  payable  in  three  Months,  with  an  allowance  of 
ten  per  Cent  or  the  Sum  lent  to  be  included  in  the  Note,  to  any 
Person  who  shall  lend  the  same  before  the  First  Day  of  February 
1781.  —  Said  Money  to  be  appropriated  soleey  for  the  purpose  of 
complying  with  the  requisition  of  the  General  Court  aforesaid,  and 
to  prevent  any  injustice  being  done,  either  to  the  Town  or  the 
lender 

Voted,  that  the  Notes  given  by  the  Town  Treasurer,  shall  be  in 
the  form  following  —  Viz'. 


168  City  Document  No.  80. 

Boston  the  1781 

In  pursuance  of  a  vote  of  the  Town  Passed  the  29th.  December 

1780  —  Borrowed  and  Received  of the  Sum  of of  the  New 

Emission,  to  enable  the  Town  to  comply  with  a  Requisition  of  the 
General  Court  of  the  Fourth  of  December  last  to  procure  Beef  for 
the  Army,  which  Sum  I  Promise  in  behalf  of  Myself  and  Succes- 
sors in  the  Office  of  Treasurer  to  repay  said or  Bearer  in  three 

Months  from  the  above  date,  with  Lawfull  Interest  for  the  same 
till  paid  to  be  made  equal  in  value  to  the  Sum  received,  in  the 
Judgement  of  the  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  to  determine 
the  same  also 

Voted,  that  John  Scollay  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1. 
Mr.  Edward  Payne 
be  a  Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid 

[484.]  And  whereas  it  is  of  the  utmost  importance  both  for 
the  Credit  of  the  Town,  and  for  the  Security  and  Satisfaction  of 
the  Lender,  that  the  Treasurer  should  be  enabled  punctually  to 
discharge  said  notes,  at  the  time  affixed  for  payment 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Nine  Thousand  pounds  lawfull  Money 
of  the  New  Emission  be  immediately  Assessed  on  the  Polls  and 
Estates  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town,  which  Sum  the  Assessors 
are  hereby  directed  to  Add  to  the  Tax  they  are  now  making 

And  whereas  it  is  absolutely  necessary  that  the  Money  should 
be  immediately  Collected,  to  prevent  the  Town  being  Subjected 
to  a  large  fine,  in  case  of  failure,  and  that  the  business  may  be 
expidited  as  much  as  possible 

Voted,  that  Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Mr.  Daniel  Bell 
Mr.  Samuel  Brick 
Mr.  John  Coffin  Jones 
Mr.  Edward  Payne 
Mr.  Stephen  Bruce 
Mr.  Herman  Brimmer 
be  a  Committee  to   apply   to  the   Inhabitants   for  an  immediate 
Loan  of  Money  to  the  Town  for  the  purposes  and  on  the  Condi- 
tions aforesaid  also 

Voted,  that  Cap1.  Amasa  Davis 
Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 
Majr.  John  May 
[485.]  be  a  Committee  to  receive  the  Monies  of  the  Town  Treas- 
urer or  such  part  of  it  as  shall  be  necessary  to  enable  the  Town  to 
comply  with  the   requisition  aforesaid,  and  pay  the  Same  to  the 
Committee  appointed  by  the  General  Court  to  procure  supplys  for 
the  Army,  or  to  their  Order,  taking  duplicate  Receipts  therefor, 
agreeable  to  the  directions  given  in  said  Resolve  of  the  General 
Court  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  and  they  hereby  are 
directed  to  receive  the  Notes  given  by  the  Treasurer  for  the  above 
purpose  in  payment  for  the  Taxes  levied  to  redeem  said  Notes, 
allowing  the  Interest  that  may  be  due  thereon,  and  that  the  Treas- 
urer l»e  and  he  hereby  is  directed  to  receive  them  of  the  Collectors 
accordingly  in  payment  for  said  Tax 


Boston  Town  Records,  1781.       169 

The  Committee  relative  to  Schoolmasters  Reported,  —  That  their 
Allowances  be  drawn  for  by  the  Selectmen  at  the  same  rate  for 
the  last  Six  Months,  as  the  preceeding,  and  that  the  Committee 
have  leave  to  set  again  and  Report  at  next  March  Meeting 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  all  Matters  unfinished  at  this  Town 
Meetino-  be  referred  to  the  next  General  Town  Meeting 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Gentelmen  the  Selectmen  be  desired 
to  apply  to  the  General  Court  for  an  explanation  of  the  Act 
relative  to  Taxes,  there  being  Persons  who  are  Taxed  for  their 
Faculty  in  Towns  where  they  reside  but  do  no  business 

[486.]  Moved  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Tuesday 
next  being  the  Ninth  Day  of  January  next,  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Tuesday  the  Ninth  Day  of  January  1781  —  3.  O'Clock  After- 
noon—  Met  According  to  Adjournment 

The  Moderators  of  this  Meeting  not  being  able  to  give  their 
attendance  at  this  Adjournment  it  wad  moved  and  Voted,  that 
the  Town  proceed  to  the  choice  of  a  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0. 

Harbottle  Dorr  Esqr. 
was  accordingly  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  Pro.  Tern0,  and 
took  his  Seat 

The  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions  fdr  the  pur- 
chase of  Beef  for  the  Army  were  called  upon  to  make  Report,  but 
the  Town  being  acquainted,  that  said  Committee  were  not  able  to 
make  Report  at  this  Meeting  —  it  was  moved,  and 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  now  dissolved 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in  Publick 
[487.]  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuiel  Hall  on  Monday 
the  22  Day  of  January  Anno  Domini  1781 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes,  for  a  Moderator,  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and 
counted,  it  appeared  that 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator,  unanimously 

The  Committee  appointed  to  procure  Subscriptions  for  the  pro- 
curing Beef  for  the  Army,  Reported,  whereby  it  appeared  that 
Three  Persons  only  had  as  yet  Subscribed,  for  the  Purpose  afore- 
said 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "To  consider  and  determine 
upon  Measures  for  the  immediate  obtaining  the  Towns  proportion 
of  Beef  for  the  Continental  Army  to  avoid  the  penalty  which  will 
otherwise  be  incurred  "  —  was  read  —  and  after  debate  had  there- 
on, it  was  moved  and 

Voted,  that  the  Report  of  the  Committee  be  Recommitted,  and 
that  the  Gentelmen  of  the  Committee  be  desired  to  Apply  to  the 


170  City  Document  No.  80. 

several  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  in  order  to  procure  such  Sums  as 
they  are  disposed  to  Lend,  the  Same  to  be  deducted  out  of  their 
respective  Taxes  for  Beef 

Voted,  that  Cap  .  William  Mackay 
Cap1.  Nathaniel  Fellows 
be  added  to  the  Committee  on  Subscriptions 

[488.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4.  "To  Grant  such 
Sums  of  Money  as  may  be  Judged  necessary"  —  was  read  and 
the  further  consideration  thereof  referred 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz4.  "  To  consider  what  is  proper 
to  be  done  to  secure  the  Town  from. Fires,  to  which  it  is  greatly 
exposed  at  the  present  season  by  the  want  of  suitable  Chimney 
Sweepers  under  proper  Regulations  was  read —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  and  they  hereby  are  Authorised 
and  impowered  to  appoint  One  or  more  Suitable  Persons  for 
Sweeping  Chimneys  upon  such  terms  and  under  Sucli  regulations, 
as  they  shall  Judge  most  for  the  Interest  of  the  Town  and  Safety 
of  the  Inhabitants,  the  charge  of  sweeping  to  be  defryed  by  those 
who  shall  employ  them 

The  Committee  appointed  for  Inlisting  this  Towns  proportion 
of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army  Reported  Verbally  —  and  it  Ap- 
peared to  be  the  sense  of  the  Town,  that  the  Committee  proceed  in 
that  business 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


[489.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in 
Publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Fanueil  Hall  on  Monday  the 
5"1.  Day  of  March  Anno  Domini  1781 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 
John  Brown  Esq1, 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  unanimously 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  the  6th.  of  March  Last 
to  apply  to  a  proper  Gentelman  to  deliver  an  Oration  the  5th.  of 
March  Ins1,  to  perpetuate  the  Memory  of  the  horred  Massacre 
perpetrated  on  the  Evening  of  the  5th  March  1770  —  by  a  Party 
of  Soldiers  under  the  Command  of  Cap1.  Thomas  Preston  of  the 
29th.  Regiment  —  Reported 

That  having  met  several  times  for  the  purposes  mentioned  in  the 
Town  Vote,  that  they  had  unanimously  made  choice  of  Mr.  Thomas 
Daws  Junr.  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th.  of  March  Instant  who 
had  accordingly  accepted  of  that  Service 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  made,  the  Question  was  put 
—  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Afferma- 
tive 

Upon  a  Motion  —  the  Town  took  into  consideration,  what  would 
be  the  best  time  to  have  the  Oration  pronounced,  as  also  what 
place  would  be  most  suitable  for  the  purpose  —  whereupon 

[4-DO.]  Voted,  that  the  Oration  be  delivered  at  the  Old  Brick 
Meeting  House,  the  Hall  not  being  capatious  enough  to  receive 
the  Inhabitants  that  attended  upon  the  occasion 


Boston   Town  Records,    1781.  171 

Voted  that  Ebenr.  Hancock  Esqr. 

Mr.  Jonathn.  Mason  Jur. 
Mr.  Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Mr.  Thomas  Dawes  and  acquaint  him 
that  it  is  the  desire  of  the  Town,  that  the  Oration  may  be  delivered 
at  the  Old  Brick  meeting  House  12.  O:  Clock  this  T>ay  — as  also 
to  ask  leave  of  the  Committee  of  said  Church  for  the  use  of  that 
Building 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to.  Order 
the  Several  Bells  in  the  Town  to  be  tolled  from  one  quarter  of  an 
Hour  after  9.  O. Clock  this  Evening  untill  10.  O. Clock 
Adjourned  to  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  12.  O. Clock 

The  Town  met  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  12  O. Clock  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  wait  upon  Mr.  Thomas  Daws  Jur. 
to  acquaint  him  with  the  Votes,  of  the  Town,  respecting  the  time 
and  Place  for  the  delivery  of  an  Oration  —  Reported 

That  said  Gentelman  was  ready  to  Comply  with  the  Order  of 
the  Town 

[491.]  An  Oration,  to  commemorate  the  horred  Massacre  of 
the  Fifth  of  March  1770  —  and  to  impress  upon  the  Minds  of  the 
Citizens,  the  ruinous  tendency  of  Standing  Armies  being  placed  in 
Free  and  Populous  Cities  &c.  was  delivered  by  Mr.  Thomas  Daws 
Junr.  to  a  large  and  crowded  Assembly,  and  received  by  them 
with  great  Applause 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that 

John  Brown  Esqr. 
John  Scollay  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
Mr.  Barret 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esq1. 
Mr.  Tuttle  Hubbard 
be  and   hereby    are   appointed   a   Committee  to   wait   upon   Mr. 
Thomas  Daws  Junr.  and  in  the  name  of  the  Town  to  thank  him 
for  the  Spirited   and  elegant  Oration  delivered   by  him  at  their 
request,  in  commemoration  of  the  horred  Massacre  perpetrated  on 
the  Evening  of  the  5  of  March  1770,  by  a  Party  of  Soldiers,  of  the 
29th.  Regiment  under  the  Command  of  Cap4.  Thomas  Preston,  and 
to  request  of  him  a  Copy  thereof,  for  the  Press  sent 
On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that 

John  Brown  Esqr.  Moderator 
Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
Harbottle  Dorr  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Daws  Jur. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason  Jur. 
Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
[492.]  John  Lowell  Esqr. 

be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Apply  to  a  proper 
Gentelman  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th.  of  March  next,  to 
perpetuate  the  Memory  of  the  horred  Massacre  perpetrated  on  the 


172  City  Document  No.  80. 

Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770,  by  a  Party  of  Soldiers  of  the 
29th.  Regiment,  under  the  Command  of  Cap4.  Thomas  Preston  ; 
and  to  impress  upon  our  Minds  the  runious  tendincy  of  Standing 
Armies  being  placed  in  Free  and  Populas  Cities  in  a  time  of  Peace  ; 
and  the  necessity  of  such  noble  Exertions  in  all  future  times,  as 
the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  then  made,  whereby  the  Designs  of 
the  Conspirators  against  the  publick  peace,  may  be  still  frustrated 
—  sent 

A  Petition  of  Mr.  Robert  Patterson  setting  forth  "that  he  re- 
ceived a  Wound  in  his  right  Arm  the  5  March  1770  by  a  Shot 
from  Prestons  Party  whereby  he  has-  entirely  lost  the  use  of  it ; 
and  that  Since  the  Death  of  Mr.  Monk  he  is  the  only  one  of  the 
unhappy  number  then  badly  wounded,  that  survives,"  and  there- 
fore praying  the  charity  of  the  Town —  was  read  —  Whereupon 

Voted,  that  a  Collection  be  made  at  the  close  of  this  Meeting 
for  the  said  unhappy  Sufferer ;  and  Boxes  were  placed  at  each 
Door  to  receive  the  Collections 

The  Collection  made  for  the  said  Mr.  Patterson,  Amounted  to 
the  Sum  of 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


[493.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  Other  Inhab- 
itants of  the  Town  of  Boston,  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned, 
in  Publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuiel  Hall  on  Monday 
the  12th.  Day  of  March  Anno  Domini  1781  —  9.  OClock  Fore- 
noon 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Eckley 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

Sundry  Laws  enjoined  to  be  read  at  this  Meeting,  were  accord- 
ingly —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  then- 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  Sorted  it  appeai'ed,  that 

John  Brown  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator 

Mr.  William  Cooper  was  chosen  Town  Clerk  for  the  year  ensu- 
ing, and  took  the  Oath  of  Office  for  the  faithfull  discharge  of  his 
Duty,  which  Oath  was  administred  by  Mr.  Justice  Price 

The  Town  having  determined  by  a  Vote  to  choose  Seven  Select- 
men ;  the  Inhabitants,  were  then  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  that  Number,  and  the  same  being  brought  in 
and  Sorted,  it  appeared  that  the  following  Gentelmen  Viz'. 
[41)4.]  John  Scollay  Esqr. 

Cap*.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Harbottle  Dorr  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nathan  Frazier 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Cap'.  William  Mackay 
Mr.  Tuttle  Hubbard 
were  chosen  Selectmen  for  the  Year  ensuing 


Boston   Town   Records,    1781.  173 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Nine  Persons  as  a 
Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  and  Safety,  and  upon 
sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

Nathaniel  Barber  Esqr. 
Edward  Proctor  Esqr. 
Cap'.  John  Pulling 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr 
Cap4.  Isaac  Phillips 
i  Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 

Majr.  Thomas  Melville 
Jonathan  Mason  Jur. 
Mr.  Christopher  Clark 
were  chose  a  Committee  of  Correspondence  &c  for  the  year  ensu- 
ing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  twelve  Overseers  of 
the  Poor,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 
The  Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr. 
Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Cap'.  Samuel  Partridge 
Mr.  Samuel  Whitwell 
[495.]  Mr.  John  White 

Edward  Proctor  Esqr. 
William  Powell  Esqr. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Sweetser  Jur. 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
M1.  Nicholas  Bowes 
Joseph  Webb  Esqr. 
were  chosen  Overseers  of  the  Poor  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their   Votes  for   twelve  Wardens, 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 
Messrs.  Robert  Davis 
Stephen  Gore 
Major  Thomas  Bunistead 
John  Champney 
Samuel  Wallis 
Habijah  Savage 
John  Wait 
Nathaniel  Barret 
Edward  Wild 
Samuel  Eliot  Junr. 
Edward  Edes 
Jacob  Holland 
were  chosen  Wardens  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Sixteen  Fire  Wards, 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 
John  Scollay  Esqr. 
William  Cooper 
Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 
Edward  Procter  Esqr. 
[496.]  Cap'.  John  Pulling 

Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 


174  City  Document  No.  80. 

Ebenezer  Hancock  Esq1. 
Mr.  Thomas  Tileston 
Andrew  Symms  Esqr. 
Cap*.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Joseph  Webb  Esqr. 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  John  Winthrop 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Majr.  Thomas  Melville 
Jabez  Hatch  Esqr. 
were  chose  Fire  Wards  for  the  Year  ensuing 

On  a  Motion — -Voted,  that  the  Choice  of  a  County  Treasurer 
and  a  Count}7  Register,  be  Assigned  to  4.  O. Clock  Afternoon 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes  for  a  Town  Treasurer 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  David  Jeffries  was  chosen, 
Town  Treasurer  for  the  Year  ensuing,  unanimously 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Question  Whether  Collectors  of 
Taxes  shall  be  chosen  Seperate  from  Constables  —  be  considered 
at  £  past  4.  OClock  in  the  Afternoon 

Voted,  that  the  Constables  of  the  Town  be  desired  to  enform 
the  Town  at  £  past  4  OClock  Afternoon,  what  they  apprehend  to 
be  the  Towns  proportion  of  Fines,  which  are  due  from  the  several 
Justices 

[497.]  On  a  Motion — Voted,  that  the  Question  Whether 
Collectors  of  Taxes  shall  be  chosen  seperate  from  Constables  — 
be  considered  at  / 

Moved  and  Voted  that  the  choice  of  Assessors  be  postponed  to 
5.0. Clock — Afternoon  — 

Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon  ■ — 

3  O'Clock.  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Adjournm*. 
Majr.  Edward  Carnes 
was  chosen  a  Surveyer  of  Hemp  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Benjamin  Page 

John  Stutson 

Moses  May 

John  Lambert 

Joseph  Ballard 

Uriah  Norcross 

Benjamin  White 

Joseph  Butler 

Samuel  Fenno 

Henry  Blaisdel 

John  Champuey 

Thomas  Bayley 

Edward  Ranger 

John  Bell 

Abraham  Howard 

Samuel  Dellaway 

Jonathan  Stoddard 

Thomas  Uran 
were  chose  Surveyors  of  Boards  for  the  year  ensuing 


Boston   Town   Eecords,    1781.  175 

Mess".  William  Clough 
Joseph  Daniels 
Samuel  Dyer 
[498.]  Nathaniel  Wales 

William  Brown 
were  chose  Fence  Viewers  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Samuel  Bangs 
Nathan  Green 
Samuel  Curtis 
Isaac  Bird 
were  chose  Sealers  of  Leather  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Mr.  Adam  Colson 
was  chosen  an  Informer  of  Deer  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  David  Spear 

Manassah  Masters 
Joseph  Spear 
John  Williston 
Joshua  Pico 
Samuel  Hey  ley 
William  Raynard 
John  Owen 
Samuel  Avis 
Caleb  Hayden 
Israel  Cook 
were  chose  Cullers  of  Staves  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  George  Hamlin 
Samuel  Curtis 
Joseph  Snelling 
were  chose  Hogreeves  for  the  ensuing  Year  — 
Messrs.  George  Hamlin 
Isaac  Tuckerman 
were  chose  Haywards  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Ward. 

[499.]  Mess".  Samuel  Clough  N°.     1 

John  Lambert  2 

James  Sherman  3 

John  Cogswell  4 

John  Dinsdell    ------         5 

John  Welch  -------         6 

William  Peake  ------         7 

David  Burrel 8 

Elisha  Sigorney 9 

Andrew  Oliver 10 

William  Fallass 11 

Charles  Simpson 12 

were  chose  Scavingers  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Votes,  for  a  County  Treasurer,  brought  in  and  being  sealed  up 

m  Town  Meeting  were  delivered  to  Mr,  Constable  Colson  to  be  by 

him  returned  to  the  Court  of  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace,  at 

their  next  Meeting 

Votes,  for  a  County  Register,  brought  in  and  being  sealed  up 

in  Town  Meeting  were  delivered  to  Mr.  Constable  Colson,  to  be  by 


176  City  Document  No.  80. 

him  returned    to   the  Court  of  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace  at 
their  next  Meeting 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby 
is  irnpowered  and  directed  to  allow  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor 
Interest  as,  usual  on  all  Sums  that  have  or  may  be  Advanced  by 
them,  for  the  Support  of  the  Almshouse 

Moved,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consider  the  present 
Condition  of  the  Almshouse  —  to  enquire  what  part  of  the  Monies 
appropriated  for  the  [500.]  Support  of  the  Almshouse  has  been 
received,  and  to  devise  the  best  means,  for  a  timely  and  regular 
supply,  and  to  Report  at  the  Adjournment  —  the  Question  being 
accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 
Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Mr,  Joseph  Russel 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

This  being  the  time  Assigned  for  taking  up  the  Question  — 
Viz'.  Whether  Collectors  shall  be  chosen  seperate  from  Constables 
—  after  debate  had  thereon  —  It  was  moved  and  carried  that  the 
further  consideration  of  this  matter  subside  for  the  present 

On  a  Motion  of  Mr.  Grays,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  of  Ways 
and  Means  be  appointed,  who  shall  take  into  consideration  the 
State  of  the  Towns  Finances,  the  present  mode  of  Assessing  and 
Collecting  their  Taxes,  and  to  Report  as  soon  as  may  be  such 
alterations  as  they  Judge  expedient 

Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esqr. 
John  Lowell  Esqr 
John  Brown  Esqr. 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Mr.  Edward  Payne 
Nathaniel  Barret 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion,  the  Question  was  put  Viz'.  Whether  the  present 
mode  of  Assessing  be  agreeable — [501.]  passed  in  the  Nega- 
tive —  also  on  a  Motion  —  the  Question  was  put.  Viz'.  Whether 
the  present  mode  of  Collecting  the  Taxes,  Assessed,  be  Agreea- 
ble—  Passed  in  the  Negative 

Cap1.  Fellows  one  of  the  Selectmen  chosen  at  this  Meeting  hav- 
ing in  Writing  prayed  that  he  might  be  excused  from  serving  in 
that  Office,  the  Present  year  it  was  moved  and  carried,  that  the 
consideration  of  this  request  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

This  being  the  time  Assigned  for  making  enquirey  of  the  Con- 
stables, with  respect  to  the  Towns  proportion  of  Fines  which  the 
Justices  received  and  are  accountable  for  —  this  matter  was  taken 
up  —  whereupon  a  Motion,  was  made,  and  carried  *'that  a  Com- 
mittee be  now  appointed,  to  make  enquirey  what  Monies  may  be 
due  to  the  Town  from  the  Justices,  as  the  Towns  proportion  of 
Fines  and  Forfitures  —  also 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Dr.  Charles  Jarvis 
Mr.  Joseph  Russell 
be  a  Committee  for  said  purpose  to  Report  as  soon  as  may  be 


Boston   Town   Kecokds,    1781.  177 

It  was  moved,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  to   Morrow 
Morning  10.  O'Clock 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


Tuesday  March  13th.  10.  O'Clock  Before  noon  —  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

[502.]  Information  having  been  been  given  to  this  Meeting 
that  two  Persons  were  got  to  Town  from  Philadelphia  with  large 
quantities  of  Paper  Moneys  which  they  had  offered  to  exchange 
for  Silver  at  upwards  of  one  hundred  for  one,  when  the  common 
exchange  is  but  Seventy  five  for  one  —  whereupon  it  was  moved 
and  Voted, 

That  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  and  Safety 
for  the  Town  of  Boston  be  directed  to  send  for  those  Persons,  and 
have  them  under  examination,  in  order  to  their  being  dealt  with 
as  the  Safety  of  this  and  the  other  United  States  require 

A  Letter  from  the  Committee  of  the  Town  of  Stoughton  to  the 
Selectmen  of  Boston  relative  to  meeting  in  a  proposed  Convention, 
with  respect  to  the  Tender  Act  so  called,  lately  repealed  was  laid 
before  the  Town  by  the  Selectmen 

The  following  Persons  were  chose  Clerks  of  the  Market  for  the 
Year  ensuing  —  Viz1. 

Messrs :  Joseph  Roby 
Thomas  Clark 
James  Morrel 
Nathaniel  Fosdick 
Thomas  Newell 
James  Carrew 
William  Smith 
William  Gooch 
Pepperal  Tyler 
Joseph  Winthrop 
[503.]  Nathan  Bond 

Thomas  Coverlv  Vernon 
Voted,  that  Ellis  Gray  Esq"1'. 

Honblc.  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Ebenezer  Storer  Esqr. 
Mr.  Herman  Brimmer 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Audit  the  Accompts 
of  David  Jeffries  Esq1'.  Treasurer  and  also  the  Accompts  of  the 
Overseers   of  the  Poor ;  and  the  said  Committee  are  impowered 
when  they  shall  Audit  said  Accounts  to  allow  such  of  the    Over- 
seers   as   have   Advanced    Monies    for   the   relief    of    the   Poor, 
Interest  on  all  such  Sums  from  the  time  so  Advanced,  untill  they 
shall  have  Audited  said  Accounts  ;  and  they  are  also   desired  to 
Report  from  Time  to  time  a  State  of  the  Treasurey  respecting  its 
debts  and  credits,  and  on  any  Matters  they  may  think  proper 

And  the  Committee  are  also  directed  to  examine  the  Draughts 
of  the  Selectmen 

Mr.    Wallis  chosen  one  of  the  Wardens  for  the   Year    ensuing 


178  City  Document  No.   80. 

having  desired   the   Town  to  excuse    him  from    serving    in    that 
Office  —  he  was  accordingly  excused 

On  a  Motion  made,  it  was  Voted  that  the  further  consideration  of 
the  Excuses  made  for  not  serving  as  Wardens  be  referred  to  the 
Adjournment 

The  Selectmen 
were  chose  Surveyers  of  High  Ways  for  the  Year  ensuing 
[504.]  Jonathan  Williams  Esqr. 

Mr.  John  Sweetser  Junr. 
M*.  John  White 
were  chose  Purchasers  of  Grain  for  the  Year  ensuing,  and  they 
are  desired  and  iinpowered  to  give  a'l  needfull  directions  to  the 
Keeper  of  the  Granary  respecting  the  quantity  of  Grain  to  be  sold, 
and  affixing  the  prices  thereof  from  time  to  time  as  occasion  shall 
require ;  and  the  said  Committee  are  directed  to  cause  all  the 
Grain  belonging  to  the  Town  to  be  ground  at  the  new  Mills  near 
the  Mill  Bridge 

John  Tudor  Esq1". 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  White 
Mr.  James  Thwing 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
were  chose  Surveyers  of  Wheat  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Thomas  Green 

Benjamin  Thompson 
were  chose  Assay  Masters  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  Schoolmasters  Salaries  and 
Grants,  be  referred  over  to  May  Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  What  Lands  shall  be  improved 
by  the  Town  the  present  Year  for  the  raising  of  Vegitables  —  was 
read,  whereupon 

Voted,  John  Lucas  Esq1. 

Cap'.  Job  Prince.  Senr. 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
[505.]     be    a   Committee    to  take  this    Article  into  considera- 
tion, and  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

It  was  moved  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next, 
the  20th  of  March  Ins1.  9.  OClock  Before  Noon 
And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Tuesday  March  20th.  9.  OCloek  Forenoon—  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

Mess".  John  Bulfinch 

Clement  Collins  Junr. 
were  chose  Surveyers  of  Boards  for  the  year  ensuing 

The  Address  of  the  General  Assembly  of  this  Commonwealth 
to  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Same  relative  to  Money  Matters  &c.  was 
distinctly  read  in  this  Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz1.  To  consider  what  is  neces- 
sary to  be  done  for  the  accommodation  of  the  Youth  of  the  South 
part  of  the  Town  with  a  Schoolhouse  in  the  room  of  one  consumed 
bv  Fire  —  was  read  and  considered  —  whereupon,  it  was  Voted, 


Boston   Town   Records,    1781.  179 

that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  and  iinpowered  to  apply  to  the 
General  Assembly  of  this  Commonwealth  at  their  next  Sessions, 
for  the  use  of  a  Room  in  the  Manufactory  House  so  called,  for 
the  accomodation  of  the  Youth  of  the  South  part  of  the  Town 
with  a  School  in  the  room  of  one  lately  consumed  by  Fire 

The  Coihittee  appointed  by  the  Town  to  [506.]  consider 
of  the  present  method  of  Assessing  and  Collecting  Taxes  &c  have 
attended  that  Service  and  Report  that  upon  enquiring  they  find 
the  Expence  of  Assessing  and  Collecting  the  State,  County  and 
Town  Taxes  for  the  last  Year  was  nearly  equal  to  all  the  Other 
Town  Charges  put  together  —  that  in  order  to  ease  the  Inhabitants 
who  are  necessarily  burthened  with  heavy  Taxes  to  carry  on  the 
War  they  propose  a  new  mode  comprised  in  the  following  Votes 
for  the  consideration  of  the  Town 

Voted  that  there  be  two  discreat  men  in  each  Military  ward 
chosen  to  Assess,  such  State  County  and  Town  Taxes  as  may  be 
ordered  the  ensuing  Year,  on  the  Inhabitants  that  live  in  those 
Wards  respectively  and  one  other  Person  in  each  Ward  to  Collect 
the  Same 

Voted,  that  neither  the  Assessors  nor  Collectors  shall  receive 
any  pay  for  their  Servicies  save  the  thanks  and  Gratitude  of  their 
fellow  Citizens 

Voted,  that  in  all  cases  where  the  Assessors  for  want  of  Valua- 
tions are  Oblidged  to  Doom,  they  shall  have  a  right  to  advise  with 
those  whom  they  think  Proper,  as  to  the  Circumstances  of  the 
Persons  to  be  doomed 

Voted,  That  when  the  Assessors  have  compleated  the  Estima- 
tions for  their  Respective  Wards,  it  shall  be  their  duty  to  convene 
and  go  over  the  several  Estimations  in  order  to  rectify  any  Errors 
that  may  appear  in  them  and  to  see  that  they  have  [507.]  all 
adopted  the  same  Standard  in  forming  their  Estimates  —  and  hav- 
ing done  this  to  see  how  much  in  the  pound,  the  Tax  to  be  As- 
sessed turns  out  upon  the  whole  Capital  of  the  Town,  and  by  that 
Rule  to  Assess  the  Inhabitants  in  their  Respective  Wards 

Voted,  That  the  Books  of  the  Assessors  shall  be  open  to  the 
Inspection  of  any  Person  who  wants  to  see  the  amount  of  An- 
others  Tax  or  the  principales  on  which  the  Assesment  is  founded 

Voted,  that  as  soon  as  the  Assessors  for  any  Ward  have  Com- 
pleated their  Assesment  they  shall  send  Tax  Bills  printed  in  the 
usual  Form  to  the  Inhabitants  of  that  Ward,  and  the  Collectors 
shall  within  days  after  the  delivery  of  said  Tax  Bills,  de- 
liver to  the  Constables,  an  attested  List  of  all  those  Persons, 
who  have  not  paid  their  Taxes  or  any  Part  thereof — -and  it  shall 
be  the  duty  of  the  said  Constables,  or  Collectors,  immediately  to 
Collect  the  same  by  Distraint  or  otherwise  as  may  be  necessary, 
for  which  purpose  they  shall  have  a  Warrant  from  the  Assessors, 
and  be  allowed  a  premium  of  5  p  Cent  on  all  Sums  which  they 
shall  so  collect  —  And  whereas  great  Advantages,  will  arise  to  the 
Publick  from  the  Taxes  being  early  and  punctually  paid  in 

Voted,  That  the  Collectors  be  and  they  hereby  are  directed 
and  impowered  to  deduct  5  p  Cent  from  the  Amount  of  the  Tax 
Bills  of  all  those  Persons  who  shall  within  Forty  Daj7s  after  the 
Date  of  the  same  pay  in  their  Taxes  to  the  Constables 


180  City  Document  No.  80. 

[508.]     And  the  Committee  prayed  leave  to  Report  further 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  after  some  debate,  it 
was  Voted,  that  said  Report  be  taken  up  b}r  paragraphs 

The  Paragraph's  of  said  Report  having  been  distinctly  read  and 
considered  the  Five  First  of  the  same  were  Accepted 

Adjourned  to  3  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3  O. Clock  P:  M:   met  according  to  Adjournment 
Messrs.  John  Gammel  —  sworn 
James  Rogers 
were  chose  Surveyors  of  Boards,  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.   "To  consider  the  request  of 
Nathan  Frazier,  that  the  Monies  he  has  Advanced  for  the  Town, 
for  severall  years  past  may  be  repaid  him"  —  was  read,  whereupon 
Voted,  that  Mr.  Joseph  Russell 
Ezekiel  Price 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  this  request  and  Report  the  Sum  that 
may  be  due  to  him  at  the  Adjournment 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  on  Ways  and  Means  again  taken 
up,  and  after  considerable  debate  had  thereon  it  was  moved  and 
carried  that  the  Report  be  recommitted  at  large,  notwithstanding 
five  paragraphs  thereof  have  been  Accepted  —  the  Committee  to 
Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 
[509.]     On  a  Motion.  Voted,  that 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Col°.  Tudor 
be  added  to  said  Committee 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Commitee  be  now  appointed  to  Join 
the  Assessors  in  preparing  an   Abstract  that  may  serve  for  taking 
the  Valuation  in  this  Town,  to  lay  before  the  General  Court 
Voted,  that  Col°.  Dawes 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis 
Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid — sent 

The  Committee  relative  to  the  Fees  due  from  some  Justices,  to 
this  Town  as  its  part  of  Fines  by  them  received  —  Reported  ver- 
bally, whereupon  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  The  Town 
Treasurer  be  directed  to  wait  upon  the  several  Justices  and  ac- 
quaint them  that  it  is  the  expectation  of  the  Town  that  they 
immediatley  settle  with  him  for  the  Towns  proportion  of  Fines  re- 
ceived by  them 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Added  to  the  Committee  on  Ways  and  Means  in  the  room  of  Mr. 
Gray,  who  is  prevented  by  Sickness  from  attending  the  Committee 
The  Committee  to  consider  the  expediency  of  improving  Land 
in  this  Town  for  the  raising  Vegi  tables  the  present  Year.  —  Re- 
ported, that  in  their  [510.]  Opinion  ;  it  would  be  for  the  Advan- 
tage of  the  Town  to  improve  the  Land  at  West  Boston  for  the 
raising  Vegetables 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  181 

Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being  the  22  Day  of  March  Instant, 
9.  O'Clock  Forenoon  — 

Monday  the  26.  Day  of  March  9.  O. Clock  Forenoon  —  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

Voted,  that 

Cap'.  Job  Prince  Senr. 
Mr.  Isaac  Pierce 
Mr  Rouse 

Mr.  Jeremiah  Belknap 
be  a  Committee  to  improve  the  Land,  at  West  Boston  for  the 
raising  of  Vegitables,  which  were  improved  for  that  Purpose  the 
last  year,  and  so  much  more  land  as  can  be  obtained  on  the  same 
conditions  with  last  as  the  Committee  may  Judge  to  be  for  the 
Interest  and  benefit  of  the  Town 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz'.  "  To  consider  whether  the 
Town  will  Lease  or  make  sale  of  any  part  of  their  Lands  on  the 
Neck  agreeable  to  the  request  of  several  of  the  Inhabitants  "  — 
whereupon  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this 
Article  be  referred  to  4.  O. Clock.  Afternoon 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  the  consideration  of  Cap'.  Bradfords  Peti- 
tion come  on,  immediately  after  the  consideration  of 'the  forego- 
ing Article 

[511.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "To  consider 
whether  the  Town  will  allow  the  same  premium  to  those  who  have 
advanced  Monies  for  the  Purchase  of  Cloathiug  for  the  Army  as 
they  have  to  such  as  have  done  it  for  the  procuring  of  Btef"  — 
was  read  and  considered  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  same  Premium  of  ten  per  Cent  be  allowed  those 
Persons  who  have  advanced  Monies  for  the  Town  for  the  procur- 
ing Cloathing  for  the  Continental  Army  as  was  allowed  those  who 
lent  their  Monies  for  the  procuring  Beef 

The  Town  Treasurer,  Reported  to  the  Town  that  Agreeable  to 
their  directions  he  had  applied  to  the  Justices  for  a  settlement  of 
the  Towns  part  of  the  Fines  which  they  had  received  —  that  Mr. 
Justice  Gardner  haid  paid  Eight  huudred  Dollars  on  Account  of 
said,  Fines  and  that  when  their  Accounts  against  the  Town  were 
allowed  by  the  Selectmen,  they  would  settle  with  him  for  the 
Fines  they  had  received — Whereupon  it  was  moved  and  Voted, 
that  the  Town  Treasurer  should  again  apply  to  the  Justices,  and 
demand  a  particular  account  of  the  Towns  part  of  the  Fines  by 
them  received 

The  Committee  appointed  to  make  full  enquirey  into  the  Affairs 
of  the  Town  respecting  debts  and  Credits  have  attended  that  ser- 
vice and  according  to  information  of  the  Town  Treasurer  find  the 
Town  indebted  to  sundry  Persons  as  p  List  herewith  rendered 
from  the  year  1762  — to  1776  including  -  -  -  8083 
Ballances  due  in    -     -     -     1777     -     -     -     -  2980 

ditto  in 1778     -  -     -     -        3678 

[512.]    Ballance  due  in  1  779      -----      13299 
Ballance  due  to  May  20th.   1780     -     -     -     -     -      33335 


the  whole  exclusive  of  Interest  Amounting  to       £61,377 


5 

Of 
10 

7 

10 

19 

3 

11 

3 

4. 

2| 

182  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Committee  have  also  received  from  the  Treasurer  a  List  of 
Debts  due  from  sundry  Persons  to  the  Town  which  together  with 
a  List  of  expenditures,  as  aiso  a  List  of  Rents  from  the  Selectmen 
are  herewith  respectfully  Submitted 

Josiah  Waters  Jun1".  p  order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  together  with  the 
Lists  referred  to  in  the  Report,  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  a 
Committee  to  assist  and  advise  the  Town  Treasurer  in  settling 
Accompts  and  Collecting  the  debts  due  to  the  Town  as  by  a  List 
on  file,  and  that  the  Treasurer  be  and  hereby  is  impowered  to 
hire  a  suitable  Person  as  a  Clerk  for  so  long  a  time  as  he  and  the 
Committee  may  Judge  to  be  necessary  also 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Waters 

Mr.  Joseph  Russell 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Committee  relative  to  ways  and  Means,  Reported,  where- 
upon it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Report  be  taken  up  at 
3.  O. 'Clock  Afternoon 

Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 


3  O'Clock,  Afternoon  —  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

[513.]  The  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  Ways  and 
Means,  again  taken  up  at  large,  and  after  considerable  debate 
had  thereon,  it  was  moved  and  carried,  that  the  same  be  further 
considered  paragraph  by  paragraph 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  considered  by  paragraphs 
and  amended  by  the  Town,  the  same  was  reduced  to  the  follow- 
ing Votes,  which  were  passed  by  a  Majority  of  the  Inhabitants, 
Viz4. 

Voted,  that  there  be  twenty  four  discreat  Men,  two  out  of  each 
Military  Ward,  chosen  as  Assessors  the  ensuing  Year  to  levy 
and  Assess  upon  the  Polls  and  Estates  of  the  Inhabitants  of 
the  Town  and  other  Persons,  doing  business  therein  all  such 
Commonwealth  County  and  Town  Taxes  as  may  be  ordered,  said 
Assessors  to  be  under  oath  as  the  Law  directs 

Voted,  that  it  is  the  undoubted  right  of  every  Inhabitant  to 
inspect  the  Books  of  the  Assessors,  and  be  informed  of  the 
principles  upon  which  any  Assessments  are  made,  and  the  Assess- 
ors are  directed  to  conform  accordingly 

Voted,  that  the  Assessors  aforesaid  shall  be  entitled  to  no 
pecuniary  reward  for  the  services  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  in  all  cases  where  the  Assessors  for  want  of 
Valuations  are  oblidged  to  doom,  they  shall  have  a  right  to  advise 
with  those  whom  they  think  proper  as  to  the  circumstances  of  the 
Persons  to  be  so  doomed 

[514.]  Voted,  that  where  the  Assessors  have  compleated  the 
estimations  for  their  respective  Wards,  it  shall  be  their  duty  to 
convene  and  go  over  the  several  estimations  in  order  to  rectify 
any  Errors  that  may  happen  in  them,  and  to  see  that  they  have  all 
adopted  the  same  standard  in  forming  their  Intimates,  and  having 
done  this  to  see  how  much  in  the  pound  the  Tax  to  be  Assessed 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  183 

turns  out,  upon  the  whole  Capital  of  the  Towu,  and  by  that  rule 
to  Assess  the  Inhabitants  in  their  respective  Wards 

Several  of  the  foregoing  Votes  or  parts  of  the  Report  of  the 
Committee  reconsidered 

Voted,  that  the  Assessors  be  and  hereby  are  impowered  and 
directed  to  set  for  such  Abatement  of  Taxes,  as  they  shall  Judge 
reasonable,  ten  clays  next  following  the  date  and  delivery  of  the 
Tax  Bills,  Lords  Days  excepted,  and  no  longer,  saving  that  they 
be  allowed  to  set  two  Days  the  last  Week  in  Februai'y  for  the 
Abatement  of  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons  as  had  not  an  oppor- 
tunity of  applying  in  the  above  limitted  time,  by  reason  of  their 
being  out  of  the  Commonwealth,  or  any  other  unavoidable  hin- 
drance ;  at  which  time  the_y  are  also  allowed  and  impowered  to 
abate  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons  as  may  have  died  Insolvent 
before  the  said  time 

Adjourned  to  Thursday  next  10.  O'Clock  Before  Noon 

Thursday  the  29th.  of  March  10.  O'Clock  P:  M:  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

[515.]  On  a  Motion  made  —  the  Question  was  put  Viz*.  — 
Whether  Collectors  of  Taxes  shall  be  chose  seperate  from  Con- 
stables —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Petition  of  Cap*.  John  Bradford  for  an  abatement  of  his 
Taxes,  was  read,  and  considered,  whereupon  it  was  moved  and 
carried,  that  the  said  Petitioner  have  leave  to  withdraw  his 
Petition 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.  — To  consider  whether  the 
Town  will  Lease  or  make  Sale  of  an}^  part  of  their  Land  on  the 
Neck,  Agreeable  to  the  request  of  several  of  the  Inhabitants." — ; 
was  again  read,  and  after  some  debate  had  thereon —  It  was 
moved  and  Seconded,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  take 
this  matter  into  further  consideration ;  and  to  Report  their 
Opinion  to  the  Town  as  soon  as  may  be  —  And  the  Question 
being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

It  was  moved  and  passed  that  this  Committee  consist  of  Nine 
Persons 

Voted  that  Deacon  Sharp 

Harbottle  Dorr  E#cf. 
Col0.  Andrew  Symms 
Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 
Cap1.  John  Ballard 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Parker 
Col0.  Barber 
William  Story  Esq', 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  to  Report  to  the  Town  as 
soon  as  may  be 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  10.  O'Clock  Beforenoon 

[516.]  Fryday  March  30th.  10  O. 'Clock  Forenoon  —  Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

John  Brown   Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting   acquainted 


184  City  Document  No.  80. 

the  Town  that  his  health  would  not  allow  him  to  attend  his  duty 
this  Day  as  Moderator 

The  Inhabitants  were  therefore  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  the  Meeting  Pro.  Tern0. —  And 
the  Votes  being  accordingly  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared 
that 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0. 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  four  Wardens. 

The  Bells  ringing  for  Fire,  before  the  Votes  were  brought  in,  a 
Motion  was  made  that  the  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  3.  O. Clock 
Afternoon  —  and  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

8  O'Clock  Afternoon,  Met  according  to  Adjournment 
The  Inhabitants  were  again    directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes  for  four  Wardens  ;    and  the  same  having  been  brought 
in  and  sorted  it  appeared,  that 

Mess™.  Elisha  Sigorney  excused 

Joseph  Prince 
Israiel  Loring 

G.  W.  Speakman  excused 

were  chosen  Wardens  for  the  ensuing  Year 

[517.]  It  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is 
Adjourned;  it  shall  be  to  toMorrow.  9.  OClock  Forenoon — also 
Voted,  that  the  Cryer  be  directed  to  inform  the  Inhabitants  of 
the  Adjournment  and  that  he  be  furnished  by  the  Town  Clerk  with 
a  written  Notification — also  that  the  several  Sextons  be  directed 
to  ring  the  Bells  of  the  Several  Churches  at  the  intended  Adjourn- 
ment 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  twelve  Constables,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Messrs.  Edward  Tuckerman  excused 

Jonathan  Amory  d°. 

John  Read  d°. 

Benjamin  Clark  d°. 

Joseph  Barrel  d°. 

John  Welch  d°. 

William  Clark  d°. 

Mungo  Mackay  d°. 

Ellis  Gray  d°. 

Samuel  Eliot  d°. 

Daniel  Parker  d°. 

Thomas  Adams  d°. 

were  chosen  Constables  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Cap'.  Robert  Davis  having  desired  the  Town  to  excuse  him 
from  serving  as  a  Warden  the  ensuing  Year  —  he  was  accordingly 
excused 

Mr.  Stephen  Gore  chosen. one  of  the  Wardens  for  the  Year 
ensuing  having  desired  to  be  excused  from  serving  [518.]  in  that 
Office —  he  was  accordingly  excused  by  the  Town 


Boston  Town  Records,  1781.  185 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  now  Adjourned  according  to  the 
Vote  already  passed  ;  —  and  it  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Saturday  the  31  Day  of  March,  9.  O'Clock  Forenoon  met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1 :  To  consider  whether  the 
Town  will  Lease  the  North  Battery  for  a  long  term  "  —  was  read, 
and  after  some  debate,  it  was  moved  and  carried,  that  the  further 
consideration  of  this  Article  be  referred 

The  Inhabitants  were  then  directed  to  withdraw,  and  bring  in 
their   Votes    for   four    Wardens  —  and  the    same    having    been 
brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared  that 
Messrs.  John  Larkin 
Samuel  Avis 
Hopestill  Foster 
Nath1.  Sheppard 
were  chose  Wardens  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Mess" :  Edward  Tuckerman  Jonathan  Amory,  John  Read, 
Benja.  Clark,  Joseph  Barrell,  John  Welch,  Mungo  Mackay, 
Ellis  Gray,  Samuel  Eliot,  Daniel  Parker  and  Thomas  Adams, 
chosen  Constables  for  the  ensuing  Year,  having  desired  the  Town 
to  excuse  them  from  serving  in  that  Office  —  they  were  accordingly 
excused 

[519.]  It  being  moved  that  the  1st.  Vote  of  the  Report  of 
the  Committee  on  Ways  and  Means  for  choosing  twenty  four 
Assessors,  be  now  reconsidered,  and  that  Seven  Assessors  only 
be  now  chosen,  the  Question  was  accord ingly  put,  and  passed  in 
the  Affermative 

It  was  also  moved  that  the  3d.  Vote,  in  said  Report,  relative  to 
the  Assessors  not  being  allowed  a  precuniary  reward  for  their  Ser- 
vicies  in  that  Office  be  now  reconsidered  and  set  aside  —  and  the 
Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Inhabitants  were  then  directed  to  bring  in  their  Votes  for 
seven  Assessors,  and  the    same  being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it 
appeared  that  only  four  were  chosen  —  Viz*. 
Messrs.  William  Lowder 
Samuel  Downe 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esq 
Bartholomew  Kneeland 
The  Inhabitants  as  directed,  brought  in  their  Votes  for  three 
Assessors  and  the  same  being  sorted  it  appeared,  that 

Gyles  Harris  Esq1.  —  excused. 

Moses  May 
Samuel  Dyer 
were  chosen  Assessors  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  O'Clock  P:  M:   met  according  to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  made  —  Voted,  that  the  last  Vote  in  the  Report  of 

the  Committee  on  Ways  and  Means  be  reconsidered  and  set  aside 

[520.]     Voted,  that  two  and  one  half  p  Cent,  be  and  hereby 

is  allowed  to  the  Persons  that  shall  be  chose  Collectors  of  Taxes  for 

the  year  ensuing,  on  all  such  Sums  of  Money  as  they  shall  Collect, 


186  City  Document  No.  80. 

provided  they  pay  the  same  into  the  Several  Treasuries  before  the 
second  Monday  in  March  1782  —  which  Premium  appears  to  be  a 
Just  and  equitable  and  an  ample  allowance  to  the  Collectors,  to 
encourage  them  to  discharge  their  duty  with  diligence  and  fidelity  ; 
provided  also  that  each  of  said  Collectors  give  Bond  with  Suffi- 
cient Sureties  to  the  Satisfaction  of  the  Selectmen  for  the  faithfull 
discharge  of  their  duty  in  said  Office,  and  complying  with  this 
Vote 

Voted,  that  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  and  they  hereby  are 
directed  and  impowered  to  deduct  five  p  cent  from  the  Amount  of 
the  Town  Tax,  on  the  Tax  Bills  of  all  those  Persons  who  shall 
within  forty  Days  after  the  date  of  the  same  pay  in  their  Town 
Taxes  to  said  Collectors,  and  that  this  be  noted  on  the  Tax  Bill 
—  also 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  and  impowered  to 
allow  the  deduction  of  the  Five  p.  Cent  aforesaid  made  by  the 
Collectors  as  aforesaid  provided  they  pay  the  same  within  five 
Days  after  the  expiration  of  the  forty 

The  Town  having   determined   to   Choose    four   Collectors   of 
Taxes   for   the   year  ensuing ;    the    Inhabitants  were    desired   to 
withdraw    and   bring    in    their  Votes  accordingly,  and  the    same 
having  been  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 
[521,]  Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 

Mr.  Benjamin  Sumner  Junr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Bayley 
Mr.  James  Thompson 
were  chosen  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  1.2  Constables,  in  the  room  of  those  who  were  chosen  in 
the  Forenoon  &  declined,  serving  —  and  the  same  having  been 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

Messrs.  Samuel  Whitney  (sworn) 

John  Ballard     -----    excused 

William  Fallass d°. 

John  Cogswell d°. 

Jacob  Edes d°. 

John  Woart       ------       d°. 

Nathaniel  Cobbit d°. 

Benjamin  Clarke    -----       d°. 

John  Rice     -------       d°. 

Jeremiah  Belknap  -     -       d°. 

Shubaiel  Hews d°. 

Elijah  Marsh d°. 

were  chosen 

Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being  the  2d.  Day  of  April. 
3.  O.Clook  Afternoon 

Monday  the  2d.  Day  of  April.  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon — Met 
according  to  Adjournment  — 

Mr.  Jeremiah  Belknap 
Mr.  John  Rice 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 


Boston   Town   Eecords,  1781.  187 

Mr.  John  Cogswell 
[522.]  Mr.  Jacob  Edes 

Mr.  John  Woart 
Mr.  Elijah  Marsh 
Mr.  Shubael  Hewes 
Mr.  William  Fallass 
Mr.  Benjamin  Clark 
having   desired  the   Town  to    excuse   them   from  serving  in  the 
Office  of  Constables  to  which  they  had  been  chosen  at  the   last 
Meeting  —  they  were  accordingly  excused 

Upon,  the  Inhabitants  being  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes  for  ten  Constables  in  the  room  of  those  which  have 
been  excused  —  a  Motion  was  made  and  carried,  that  the  choice 
of  Constables  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

Gyles  Harris  Esqr,  having  in  writing  excused  himself  from 
serving  as  an  Assessor,  it  was  Moved  & 

Voted,  that  the  choice  of  an  Assessor  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Harris 
who  has  resigned,  be  referred  over  to  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  Whether  the  Town  will  Lease 
the  North  Battery  for  a  long  term"  —  was  read  whereupon  it  was 
moved  and  Voted  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  consider 
this  Article  and  to  confer  with  any  Person  disposed  to  purchase  or 
Lease  the  Estate,  and  to  Report  at  the  Adjournment  what  they 
Apprehend  will  be  for  the  Interest  of  the  Town  to  be  done 
thereon  —  also 

Voted,  that  Deacon  Sharp 

Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 
Col0.  Symms 
[523.]  Thomas  Dawes  Esq1. 

Cap4.  John  Ballard 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
'  Mr.  Thomas  Parker 
Col0.  Nathaniel  Barber 
William  Storey  Esq1". 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  sent 
The  Article  in  the  Warrent.  Viz'. 

To  consider  of  the  Petition  of  a  Number  of  the  Inhabitants, 
that  such  Measures  may  be  taken  as  may  most  effectually  dis- 
countenance an  illicit  &  Careful  trade  with  the  Enemies  of  the 
United  States  "  — >was  read,  whereupon  it  was  Moved,  and  Voted, 
that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  take  this  Matter  into  con- 
sideration, and  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting,  what 
they  apprehend  may  be  best  to  be  done  thereon  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  &  Inspection  & 
Safety,  be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid. 

Moved,  that  the  foregoing  Votes  for  choosing  a  Committee,  to 
consider  the  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  an  illicit  trade,  be 
reconsidered,  and  that  the  consideration  of  this  matter  be  referred 
to  the  Adjournment 

The  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative 
On  a  Motion*  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  ac- 


188  City  Document  No.  80. 

quaint  the  Justices,  that  a  particular  Account  of  the  Towns  pro- 
portion of  Fines,  [524.]  Received  by  them,  will  be  expected 
from  them  by  the  Adjournment 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  late  Constables  be  desired  to  con- 
tinue their  good  services  in  that  Office,  till  other  Constables  are 
chosen  and  Sworn  into  that  Office  ;  and  that  they  be  desired  to  favor 
the  Town,  with  a  List  of  such  suitable  Persons  as  they  apprehend 
would  willingly  Serve  the  Town  as  Constables  the  Year  ensuing  ; 
at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

It  was  moved  that  this  Meeting  be  now  Adjourned  to  Wednes- 
day the  11th  Day  of  April,  10.  O'Clock  &  Before  Noon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


Wednesday  the    11th.  Day   of  April  10.  O'Clock    Forenoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.   Nathaniel  Cobbit  appeared  and  having  desired  the  Town 
to  excuse  him  from  serving  as  a  Constable  into  which  Office  he 
was  lately  chosen  — he  was  accordingly  excused 

The   Inhabitants    were   directed    to   bring    in   their   Votes    for 
eleven  Constables ;  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it 
appeared  that 

Messrs.  John  Doake     -----     excused 

Josiah  Simpson  (sworn) 

John  Hewes  excused 

Alexander  Mc. Cloud.  (sworn) 

[525.]  Elkanah Hayden  -     -     -     -     (sworn) 

John  Mc.Fadden  -     -     -     -     excused 

Benjamin  Vezie  ------    d°. 

William  Baxter 

William  Rogers  (sworn) 

William  Ballard  excused 

Edward  Jones  d°. 

were  chose  Constables  for  the  ensuing  Year 

The  Committee  relative  to  Leasing  the  North  Battery  —  Report 
as  follows  Viz'. 

That  they  have  Attended  the  service,  and  having  fully  viewed 
the  North  Battery  are  fully  of  Opinion  that  it  will  be  for  the 
interest  of  the  Town  to  sell  the  same  for  the  Most  it  will  fetch  — 
that  to  form  some  estimate  of  the  value  they  are  of  Opinion,  that 
some  suitable  Persons,  who  are  proper  Judges  should  make  an 
estimate  thereof  to  enable  the  Persons  appointed  to  sell  the  same 
to  form  some  Judgement  of  the  value,  the  Committee  beg  leave  to 
purpose  to  the  Town  whether  it  would  not  be  best  to  give  the  pur- 
chaser liberty  to  pay  for  the  same  in  three  payments  —  they  have 
conversed  with  Mr.  Jones  who  seems  inclined  to  purchase 

Gibbins  Sharp  p  order 
The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  where- 
upon the  Question  was  put  Viz'.   — "Whether  the  same  shall  be 
accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affe.rmative 

[520.]  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  served  with  a  Copy  of 
the  foregoing  Vote,  and  that  they  be  and  hereby  are  Authorised 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  189 

and   irnpowered  to  make  Sale  of  said  Estate  in  such  manner  as 
they  shall  Judge  most  for  the  interest  of  the  Town 

sent 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  the  expediency  of 
Leasing  or  making  Sale  of  any  part  of  the  Towns  Land  on  the 
Neck — Reported,  — and  After  considerable  debate  had  thereon  it 
was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  same  be  recommitted,  and  that  the 
Committee  take  into  consideration  the  terms  of  the  late  Mr.  Sutten 
Byles  Lease  of  part  of  those  Lands,  as  also  the  best  method  to 
defend  the  Neck  from  the  incroachments  of  the  Sea,  and  to 
Report  to  the  Town  as  soon  as  may  be 

The  Town  Treasurer  laid  before  the  Town  a  Letter  from  Mr. 
Justice  Gardner  acquainting  them  with  the  State  of  the  Fines  he 
had  received  from  Mr.  Justice  G-reenleaff 

The  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  having  represented  to  the  Town  that 
they  were  in  such  want  of  Money,  that  unless  they  are  furnished 
with  some  immediatley  they  must  open  the  Almshouse  Doors  to 
let  the  Poor  out  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr,  be  a  Committee  to  enquire  of 
the  Treasurer  what  immediate  provision  it  is  in  his  power  to  make 
for  the  supply  of  the  Almshouse 

[527.]     Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3  0. Clock  Afternoon  — met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  John  Hews  desired  to  be  excused  from  serving  as  a  Consta- 
ble the  present  Year  —  and  he  was  accordingly  excused  by  the 
Town 

Mr.  Benjamin  Vezie  desires  to  be  excused  from  serving  as  a 
Constable  the  present  year  —  and  he  was  accordingly  excused 

The  Letter  of  Mr.  Justice  Greenleaf  and  the  Account  of  Mr. 
Justice  Greenleaf  laid  before  the  Town  by  the  Treasurer  were 
both  read  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  said  Letter  &  Account  be  referred  to  the  Committee 
appointed  to  make  enquiry,  and  that  said  Committee  appointed  be 
desired  to  call  upon  the  Executor's  of  the  Will  of  the  late  Justice 
Pemberton  deceased  for  the  Towns  proportion  of  Fines  which  had 
been  received  by  said  Justice 

The  Committee  appointed  to  enquire  of  the  Town  Treasurer 
what  Sums  he  could  furnish  for  the  supply  of  the  Almshouse  — 
Reported,  that  having  made  the  enquirey  directed,  they  were  in- 
formed by  the  Treasurer,  that  he  had  not  any  Monies  in  his  hands, 
&  therefore  should  not  be  Able  to  supply  any  Monies,  except  the 
Collectors  should  bring  in  of  what  they  have  to  Collect  —  that  of 
the  five  hundred  thousand  pounds  granted  [528.2  m  November 
last,  no  more  than  fifty  two  thousand  had  as  yet  been  received 
by  him  into  the  Treasurey 

The  Gentlemen  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor  having  represented 
in  a  Most  affecting  Manner,  the  present  suffering  and  almost 
perishing  circumstances  of  the  Poor  in  the  Almshouse,  and  the 
Necessity  of  an  immediate  and  Adequate  supply  of  Money  to 
enable  them  to  provide  for  their  support  and  to  prevent  what 
must  Otherwise. uuadvoidably  take  place  — Viz'.  The  opening  the 


190  City  Document  No.  80. 

doors  of  the  Almshouse,  that  such  of  those  unhappy  Sufferei'S  as 
are  able  to  walk  out  may  from  door  to  door  seek  such  relief  of 
their  compassionate  and  Christian  Townsmen  as  might  save  them 
from  perishing ;  and  the  Town  having  taken  this  representation 
into  their  Serious  consideration 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  in  each  Ward  to  raise 
by  Subscription  of  the  several  Inhabitants,  a  sum  not  exceed- 
ing two  thousand  Pounds  in  Silver  or  Current  Money  equivilent 
for  the  immediate  supply  of  the  Almshouse,  and  that  the  Chair- 
man of  the  respective  Wards,  shall  receive  the  Subscriptions  and 
return  the  Money  subscribed  together  with  the  Subscription  paper 
to  the  Town  Treasurer  who  shall  furnish  the  respective  Collectors 
of  Taxes  with  Attested  Copies  of  the  Same  in  order  to  their  de- 
ducting said  Sums  out  of  the  [529.]  Taxes  of  the  respective 
Lenders  from  the  next  tax  that  shall  be  issued,  &  that  the  head 
of  a  Subscription  Paper  be  drawn  up  by  the  Town  Clerk,  and 
delivered  to  the  Chairman  of  each  Ward 

Voted,  that  Messrs.       Silas  Atkins 

Nathaniel  Barber  Jur. 
John  R.  Sigourney 
be  a  Committee  for  Ward  N°.   1  to  answer   the  purpose   afore- 
said. 

Messrs.  Jedediah  Parker 

Thomas  Coverly  Vernon 
Foster  Cruft 

a  Committee  for  Ward -     -     -     -     N°.  2. 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
Jonathan  Mountford  J1', 
a  Committee  for  Ward   --------  -     -     N°.  3. 

Mess".  Daniel  Parker 
John  Larking 
Col0.  Syms 
a  Committee  for  Ward  -----------     N°.  4. 

Dr.  William  Clark 
Cap1.  John  Pulling 
Mr.  Thomas  Hitchburne 

a  Committee  for  Ward  --- =     --     N°.  5. 

Mess".  Joseph  Hall 
Samuel  Barret 
Mr.  Stephen  Amory 

a  Committee  for  Ward       -     -     - --     N°.  6. 

Mess".  Timothy  Newell 
Richard  Salter 
Joseph  Callender 

[530.]     a  Committee  for  Ward -     -    N°.  7. 

Cap1.  John  Simpkins 
Jeremiah  Belknap 
Samuel  Eleot 
a  Committee  for  Ward -     -     -     -     -     N°.  8. 


Boston  Town   Records,  1781.  191 

Mess".  Elisha  Sigorney 
Luke  Baker 
Zephion  Thayer 

a  Committee  for  Ward ____.-     n°.  9. 

Charles  Miller  Esqr. 
Adam  Colson 
Stephen  Hall 

a  Committee  for  Ward N°.  io 

Cap4.  Nehemiah  Somes 
Joseph  Barrel 
Thomas  Tileston 

a  Committee  for  Ward N°.  1 1 

Deacon  Thomas  Bayley 
Deacon  John  Procter 
Mr.  William  Marshall 
a  Committee  for  Ward N°.  12 

The  following  is  the  Head  of  a  Subscription  Paper  delivered  to 
the  Chairman  of  each  Ward — Viz*. 

We  the  Subscribers  most  sensibly  effected  with  the  foregoing 
Representation  of  the  present  condition  of  the  aged  decriped  & 
other  suffering  Poor  in  the  Almshouse,  some  of  whom  have  lived 
well  and  contributed  their  share  towards  the  Publick  expence  ; 
and  fully  apprehensive  [531.]  not  only  of  the  many  and  great 
inconveniences  that  must  take  place  upon  those  Poor  being  thrown 
upon  the  Charity  of  Private  Families,  but  of  the  great  reproach  it 
would  Justly  bring  upon  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town,  both  as 
Men  and  as  Christians,  for  so  cruel  and  unpresidented  a  Neglect 
—  do  therefore  hereby  chearfully  engage  to  pay  the  respective 
Sums  affixed  to  our  Names,  to  the  Chairmen  of  the  Above  Com- 
mittee, upon  the  condition  and  for  the  purposes  expressed  in  the 
aforegoing  Vote 

The  Committee  appointed  for  inlisting  this  Towns  proportion 
of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army  —  Acquainted  the  Town  how 
far  they  had  proceeded  in  the  service  Assigned  them 

Moved  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  being 
the  13th  of  April  —  3  0. Clock  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Fryday  April  13th.  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon  met  according  to  Ad- 
journment 

Mr.  Benjamin  Vezie  and  Mr.  William  Ballard,  who  have  been 
chosen  Constables  for  the  ensuing  Year,  appeared,  and  having 
desired  the  Town  to  excuse  them  from  serving  in  that  Office,  they 
were  accordingly  excused 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  two  Constables,  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in 
and  Sorted,  it  appeared  that 

[532.]  Messrs.  John  Hunt  ------         sworn 

Rufus  Bent  -------  d°. 

were  chose  Constables  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Mr.  John  Doak  &  Mr.  Edward  Jones,  who  have   been   chosen 


192  City  Document  No.  80. 

Constables  for  the  Year,   ensuing,  having  desired  to  be  excused 

from  serving  in  that  Office  they 

were  accordingly  excused  from  serving  by  the  Town 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  two  Constables,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Messrs.  Elijah  Searl sworn 

Spencer  Walker      -     -     -     -     excused 
were  chosen  Constables  for  the  ensuing  Year  — 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  one  Assessor,  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in 
and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

George  B.  Gedney 
was  chosen  an  Assessor  for  the  ensuing  Year  — 

Mr.  John  Hews  chosen  into  the  Office  of  Constable  for  the 
Year  ensuing  having  prayed  that  he  might  be  excused  from 
serving  in  that  Office,  he  was  accordingly  excused  by  the  Town 

The  Town  brought  in  their  Votes  as  directed,  for  one  Consta- 
ble, and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  Mr.  Foster  Cruft 
was  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  ensuing  Year  excused 

[533.]  Mr.  John  McFadclen  chosen  into  the  Office  of  Con- 
stable, for  the  ensuing  Year,  having  desired  to  be  excused  by 
the  Town  from  serving,  he  was  accordingly  excused 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  one  Constable,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted, 
it  appeared  that 

Mr.  William  Clough  sworn 

was  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Mr.  Clough  attended  &  desired  to  be  excused  serving  as  a 
Constable  &  the  Question  was  put,  but  did  not  obtain 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  one  Constable,  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in 
and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Mr.  Samuel  Smith 
was  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  Year  ensuing 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 

Mr.  Joseph  Russell 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
the  Committee  on  Mr.  Fraziers  Petition  make  up  the  depreciation 
on  his  debt  according  to  Continental  Scale  of  depreciation 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  Things  which  remaine 
unfinish'd  at  this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  May  Meeting 

[534.]  On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town 
be  and  hereby  are  given  to  John  Brown  Esqr.  Moderator  Pro. 
Tern",  for  the  good  services,  in  dispatching  the  business  of  the 
Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Male  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston 
of  Twenty  One  Years  of  Age  and  Upwards,  qualified  as  the  Con- 


Boston  Town  Kecoeds,  1781.  193 

stitution  prescribes  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town  Meeting, 
Assembled  at  Fanuiel  Hall  on  Monday  the  2d.  Day  of  April  A.D. 
1781  — 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revtl.  Mr.  Clark 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

Paragraphs  of  the  Constitution  or  Form  of  Government,  rela- 
tive to  the  choice  of  Governor,  Lievetinant  Governor,  and  six 
Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk 

It  was  then  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes  would  be 
received  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they  purpose  that 
the  Poll  shall  be  closed  at  half  an  hour  past  Twelve  O'Clock 

It  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Bells  be  rung  at  a  quarter 
past  12.  O'Clock 

[535.]  Persons  Voted,  for  as  Governor,  with  the  number  of 
Votes  for  each  Person  —  Viz1. 

His  Excellency  John  Hancock  Esqr. 
Five  hundred  &  thirteen  Votes 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Luiev*.  Governor  with  the  Number  of 
Votes  for  each  Person  —  Viz*. 

Votes 

His  Honer  Thomas  Cashing  Esqr.       -     -     ••  480 

Houble.  Samuel  Adams  Esq''.       -     -  .  -  12 

Honble.  Azor  Orne  Esq1'. 2 

Mr.  Elias  Parkman    -------  2 

Mr.  Nathaniel  Tracy      ------  1 

Thomas Esqr.     -     -     -     -  1 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk  with 
the  Number  of  Votes  for  each  Person  Viz'. 

Votes 

Ellis  Gray  Esqr.    -------      4 

Honble.  Jeremiah  Powell  Esq1".     -       508 
Samuel  Adams  Esq1'.       -     -     -     -       479 

John  Pitts  Esqr. 505 

Jabez  Fisher 510' 

Increase  Sumner  ------       512 

Samuel  Niles    --------20 

Cotton  Tuffts -       476 

Mr.  Leonard  Jarvis    ------     4 

Honble.  Benjamin  White      -     -     -     -      6 

HonbIe.  Thomas  Gushing  Esq1'.      -     -      9 

John  Rowe  Esq1'.  - 11 

Honble.  Caleb  Davis  Esqr.    -     -     -     -      1 

John  Lowell  Esqr. 2 

Honblc.  William  Phillips  Esqr.  -     -     -      1 

[536.]  Attested  Copies  of  the  Persons  Voted  for  as  Gover- 
nor Leivetenant  Governor  and  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk 
were  committed  to  the  Secretary  of  this  Commonwealth,  and  the 
Inclosure  sealed  up  in  Town  Meeting  —  Superscribed  as  follows — 
Viz1. 


194  City  Document  No.  80. 

For 

John  Avery  Junr.  Esq1". 

Secretary  of  the  Commonwealth 

of  Massachusetts 
The  Number  of  Votes  of  the  Town  of  Boston  for  a  Governor 
Leivetanant  Governor  and  Six  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk, 
Certified  within  and  Sealed  up  in  Town  Meeting 
Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


At  a  legal  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of 
the  Town  of  Boston  atFaneiuel  Hall  April  27 — 1781  —  3.  O'Clock 
Afternoon 

Warrant  for  calling  ye.  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted, 
it  appeared  that 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "To  consider  and  determine 
upon  the  most  expeditious  [537.]  measures  for  making  up  the 
Towns  defficiency  of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army,  Occasioned 
by  the  neglect  or  refusal  of  some  Classes  and  Individuals  in 
Classes  to  procure  them  ;  as  also  to  give  in  to  the  Assessors  the 
Names  of  every  such  Delinquent  that  they  may  be  Assessed  as  the 
Law  directs  the  full  value  of  the  same  which  shall  be  expended 
in  procuring  their  Men  together  with  the  50  pC.  the  Town  have 
Voted  shall  be  laid  upon  the  respective  Delinquents  in  Addition 
to  the  charge  aforesaid"- — was  read  —  whereupon  the  Committee 
for  Inlisting  Men  were  called  upon  to  inform  the  Town  what  Classes 
were  defficient,  who  Reported  —  That  36  men  the  Committee 
have  receipted  for  from  the  Classes  —  1  Man  inlisted  by  a  Class 
for  which  the  Committee  did  not  Receipt  —  making  37  Men 
from  the  Classes  —  81  Inlisted  by  the  Committee  —  the  whole 
118  Men  —  63  Men  wanting 

65  Classes  have  paid  £36 —  &  each  have  a  Man  Assigned.  60 
ditto  have  paid  in  part  £36  — 125  Classes  have  paid  in  full  and 
in  part  of  £36  —  37  Classes  have  got  their  Men 

Classes 

themselves  making     --.    - -----162 

Classes  Delinquent       -•     ------------19 

181 
37  from  Classes 
65  Assigned 


102 

16  Men  to  Assign 


On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting, 
the  Committee  for  Inlisting  Men  be  desired  to  make  Report  of 
their  doings,  and  [538.]   The  Names  of  all  the  Persons  who  are 


Boston  Town  Records,  1781.  195 

Delinquents,  with  respect  to  paying  their  respective  Assessments 
for  procuring  the  Men  ;  and  the  Town  will  then  take  immediate 
Measures  to  procure  the  Men ;  and  return  the  Names  of  such 
Delinquents  to  the  Assessors 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it 
shall  be  to  next  Monday  Seven  night  —  3.  O. Clock.  Afternoon 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  the  Committee  for  Inlisting  Men  be 
desired  to  make  enquirey  with  respect  to  such  Persons  as  are  car- 
rying out  and  Inlisting  Men  for  Other  Towns,  and  to  lay  the  proofs 
with  the  Names  of  such  Persons ;  before  the  Town  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting,  that  they  may  be  dealt  with  according  to 
their  deserts 

Adjournment  to  the  7th.  Day  of  May  next  being  Monday.  3. 
OClock  in  the  Afternoon 

Monday  the  7  Day  of  May.  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon — Met  ac- 
cording to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  for  Inlisting  the  Towns  proportion  of  Men  for 
the  Continental  Army,  being  called  upon  to  Report  their  doings  to 
the  Town  —  they  accordingly  Reported  that  they  had  inlisted' — 
One  hundred  and  twenty  1  Men 

The  Chairman  of  the  Committee  appointed  to  make  enquiry 
what  Sums  remained  due  from  the  several  Justice  of  the  Peace 
for  the  Towns  proportion  [539.]  of  the  Fines  by  them  received 
from  time  to  time 

Reported,  that  they  had  discoursed  with  Mr.  Justice  Gardner 
relative  to  those  fines,  and  also  had  read  his  Letter  to  the  Town 
respecting  those  Fines  and  what  he  had  paid  in  and  done  for  the 
Town,  and  upon  the  whole  they  think  what  he  has  paid  and  done, 
may  be  looked  upon  as  Satisfactory  for  what  is  past,  but  that  a 
regular  Account  ought  to  be  kept  by  the  Justices  in  future  ;  and 
that  they  be  duly  called  upon  by  the  Town  Treasurer,  for  the 
Towns  proportion  of  such  Fines  as  they  ma}'  have  received  — 
the  Letter  from  M1'.  Justice  Gardner  to  the  Town,  was  again  read 
—  And  the  Question  being  then  put  —  Viz1.  Whether  the  same 
shall  be  accepted  as  Satisfactory  to  the  Town  —  Passed  in  the 
Affermative 

It  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  Mr.  Justice  Greenleaf  be  desired 
to  lay  before  the  Selectmen  by  tfext  "Wednesday  all  his  returned 
Warrants  since  the  Town  was  opened,  or  an  Account  of  the  Towns 
proportion  of  fines,  making  Oath  that  he  Apprehends  the  same  to 
be  the  full  amount  of  what  has  been  received  by  him  in  that  time 
for  the  Towns  proportion  of  Fines 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  call  upon  the 
several  Justices  for  a  particular  Account  of  the  Towns  proportion 
of  Fines  received  by  them,  every  Six  Months,  and  also  for  the 
Sums  which  those  Fines  may  severally  Amount  to  within  that  time, 
and  in  case  of  refusal  or  neglect,  to  prosecute  them  for  the  Same, 
Agreeable  to  the  Law  of  this  Commonwealth 

[540.]  The  Committee  for  Inlisting  the  Towns  proportion  of 
Men  for  the  Continental  Army  Reported  the  Names  of  Deliquents 
Persons  in  the  several  Classes  —  Whereupon 


196  City  Document  No.  80. 

Voted,  that  said  Committee  be  desired  to  Report  at  the  Next 
Town  Meeting,  what  they  shall  apprehend  will  be  the  best  method 
for  raising  the  Money  necessary  to  procure  the  Men  wanted  for  the 
Delinquent  Class  and  Individuals 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  the  further  acting  upon  the  Article 
of  the  Warrant,  be  referred  over  to  the  General  Town  Meeting  in 
May 

Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given  to 
John  Tudor  Esq1",  for  his  good  services  as  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston,  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Wednesday  the  16th 
Day  of  May  Anno  Domini  1781.  10  O'Clock  Forenoon 

Prayer  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Wight 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting,  read 

That  part  of  the  Constitution  or  Form  of  Goverment  which 
relates  to  the  choice  of  Representatives  annually  read 

[541.]      Sundry  Laws     -----     read 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  seven  Persons  to  repre- 
sent them  in  the  General  Assembly  of  Massachusetts  to  be  held  at 
the  State  House  in  Boston  upon  the  last  Wednesday  of  May  Cur- 
rent, agreeable  to  the  Constitution  or  Form  of  Goverment  for  the 
Massachusetts.  —  The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly  directed  to 
withdraw,  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  seven  Representatives,  and 
then  it  was  declared  by  the  Selectmen,  that  no  Votes  will  be  re- 
ceived, but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they  purpose  the  Poll 
shall  be  closed  at  12.  O. Clock 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  seven  Representatives,  the 
number  of  the  same  were  found  to  be  four  hundred  thirty  eight, 
and  upon  sorting  them  it  Appeared,  that  the  following  Persons 
were  chose  —  Viz4. 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.     -     -     -     -     415 

The  Honble.  Caleb  Davis  Esq1'. 273 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr.     --------421 

John  Lowell  Esqr. -     -     -     421 

Samuel  A.  Otis  Esqr. -     -     -     260 

•Leonard  Jarvis    ----------     237 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 408 

The  choice  of  Representatives  being  over  and  declared  by  the 
Selectmen,  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  in  order  that  the 
Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  Other  Affairs  mentioned  in 
the  Warrant ;  accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew  and  Brought 
in  their  Votes,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 

[542.]  John  Brown  Esq1". 

was  chosen 

Mr.  Brown  not  being  in  the  Meeting,  or  to  be  found,  it  was 
moved  that  a  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0:   be  now  chosen 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  197 

The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly  directed  to  withdraw  and 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  Pro  Tern0.  —  and  the  same 
being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

John  Scollay  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3  O. Clock  Afternoon  met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Brown  the  Moderator  of  the  Meeting,  &  M1'.  Scollay 
chosen  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0,  being  both  Absent,  it  was  moved, 
&  Voted  that  the  Town  proceed  to  the  Choice  of  another 

The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly  directed  to  withdraw  and 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  and  the  same  having  been 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Samuel  Allen  Otis  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  whether 
Instruction  shall  be  given  the  Representatives  [543.]  that  may 
be  chosen"  —  was  read  and  after  debate  had  thereon,  it  was 
moved,  and  the  Question  accordingly  put —  Viz1.  Whether  the  Town 
will  now  Instruct  the  Representatives  that  have  been  chosen  — 
passed  in  the  Negative 

The  Petition  of  the  Collectors  of  Taxes,  "  that  the  Town  will 
reconsider  the  Vote  lately  passed  respecting  the  Premium  to  be 
allowed  for  collecting  the  Taxes  ;  and  also  determine  with  respect 
to  the  Abatement  of  certain  Taxes  to  them  committed  "  was  read 
whereupon  it  was  moved  and  carried  that  a  Committee  be  ap- 
pointed to  consider  said  Petition,  and  Report  at  the  Adjournment 
of  this  Meeting 

Voted,  that  Mr. Joseph  Barrel 

Mr.  Herman  Brimmer 
Cap4.  William  Mackey  excus'd 

Mr.  John  White 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Moved,  that  an  Application  be  made  to  the  General  Court 
relative  to  the  Old  Monies  —  depreciating  —  after  some  debate  it 
was  moved,  and  carried  that  the  Matter  subside  for  the  present 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  Master  of  the  South  Grammer 
School  be  allowed  and  paid  the  Sum  of  Ninety  Pounds  in  Gold  & 
Silver  or  current  Money  equivalent  thereto  at  the  time  he  shall 
receive  the  same  out  of  the  Treasuery,-  for  Six  Months  Salary  as 
Master  of  said  School,  the  same  to  commence  the  1st.  of  March  last 

[544.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ninety  Pounds  be  allowed 
and  paid  unto  Mr.  Aaron  Smith  Master  of  the  North  Grammer 
School,  in  Gold  &  Silver  or  Current  Money  equivilent  thereto  at 
the  time  he  shall  receive  the  same  out  of  the  Treasury,  for  Six 
Months  Salary  as  Master  of  said  School,  the  same  to  commence 
the  first  of  March  last 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Seventy  five  pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  John  Tileston  Master  of  the  North  Writing  School, 
in  Gold  &  Silver  or  current  Money  equivilent  thereto  at  the 
Time   he    shall   receive    the  Same  out  of   the  Treasury    for   Six 


198  City  Document  No.  80. 

Months  Salary  as  Master  of  said  School,  the  same  to  commence 
the  first  of  March  last  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  said  Mr.  Tileston  have  an  Additional  allowance 
of  Eighteen  Ponnds  p  Annum  for  House  Rent  or  the  Exchange  as 
aforesaid, 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Seventy  five  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  James  Carter  Master  of  the  Writing  School  in 
Queen  Street,  in  Gold  &  Silver  or  current  Money  eqnivilent  thereto 
at  the  time  he  shall  receive  the  same  out  of  the  Treasurey  for 
Six  Months  Salary  as  Master  of  said  School,  the  same  to  com- 
mence the  first  of  March  last 

[545.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Eorty  five  Pounds  be  Allowed, 
and  paid  unto  M1'.  William  Croswell  Usher  of  the  South  Grammer 
School,  in  Gold  &  Silver  or  Current  Money  equivelent  thereto  at 
the  time  he  shall  receive  the  same  out  of  the  Treasury  for  Six 
Months  Salary  as  Usher  of  said  School  the  same  to  commence  the 
first  of  March  last 

The  Committee  for  Inlisting  the  Towns  proportion  of  Men  for 
the  Continental  Army  —  Reported  there   proceedings,  Verbally  — 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  being  the  22d  Day  of  Mav  Ins'.  3. 
O'Clock 

Fryday  May  22d.  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon.  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  to  Act  upon  the  List 
of  Jurors 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  three  Constables,  —  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted  it  Appeared  that 

Messrs.  Benajah  Davenport  sworn 

Samuel  Sprague 

Joshua  Beal  excused 

were  chosen  Constables  for  the  ensuing  year 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  the  Petition  of  the  Col- 
lectors of  Taxes,  having  Attended  that  service  are  of  Opinion 
with  respect  to  the  [546.]  Abatement  of  the  Taxes,  that  the  As- 
sessors are  the  proper  Judges,  and  therefore  advise  that  they  be 
directed  to  Abate  all  those  Persons  their  Taxes,  that  by  Law  are 
exempted  from  payment  and  all  those  which  cannot  be  Collected 
which  they  are  convinced  were  not  lost  by  the  Omission  of  the 
Collectors,  but  if  any  are  become  bad  by  their  carelessness  or  un- 
due lenity,  in  that  case  the  Committee  are  of  Opinion  that  those 
sums  so  lost  be  not  abated,  but  that  the  Collectors  make  them 
good  —  and  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  liquidate  and  settle  their 
accounts  as  soon  as  may  be 

The  Committee  beg  leave  to  sugest  that  Application  be  made 
to  the  General  Court  by  our  Representatives  that  a  law  may  be 
made,  expressly  and  explicitly  to  enable  the  Assessors  to  tax  such 
Persons,  as  do  not  reside  in  Town  but  do  their  business  here,  altho 
they  are  Taxed  elsewhere,  as  nothing  can  appear  more  unreasona- 
ble than  the  Determination  of  a  late  Court  of  Sessions,  that  a 
Man  shall  pay  his  whole  Taxes  to  a  Town,  where  he  does  not  ac- 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  199 

quire  a  farthing,  but  only  spend,  the  property  which  he  acquires  in 
this  Town  luhile  this  Town  reaps  no  benefit  although  the  business 
would  otherwise  be  done  by  Persons  residing  here 

The  Committee  are  of  Opinion  that  the  Premium  of  two  and 
half  p  Cent  allowed  the  Collectors  for  Collecting  the  Taxes,  is 
sufficient  for  that  service  and  that  they  be  enjoined  to  pay  in  from 
time  to  time,  to  the  Town  Treasurer  at  the  [547.]  same  time 
they  pay  into  the  State  Treasurer,  the  full  proportion  of  the  Towns 
Taxes,  and  that  the  Treasurer  of  the  Town  make  it  a  standing 
Rule  whenever  the  State  Treasurer  Issues  his  Executions,  that  he 
does  the  same,  without  further  Order  from  the  Town 

Joseph  Barrell  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  Viz1. —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted 
Passed  in  the  Aff ermative  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  furnish  the  Assessors,  the  respec- 
tive Collectors  and  the  Town  Treasurer  with  attested  Copies  of  the 
aforegoing  Vote 

The  Committee  appointed  to  liquidate  the  Account  of  Nathan 
Frazier  Esqr.  for  Monies  lent  the  Town  at  several  Times  —  Re- 
port 

That  they  find  the  Sum  of  £601  ..  19  ..  8  Silver  Money  due  to 
him  as  appears  by  the  within  State  —  that  the  Town  Treasurer 
take  his  Notes  given  to  Mr.  Frazier,  and  grant  him  a  New  Note 
for  the  above  sum  payable  in  Silver  Money  or  an  equivilant 
thereto  in  Current  Money  when  paid —  this  new  Note  to  bear  this 
date  and  carry  Interest 

Joseph  Russell  Jun1" 
Ezekiel  Price 
Stephen  Higginson 

[*547.]  The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  con- 
sidered —  the  Question  was  put.  Viz'.  Whether  the  same  shall  be 
accepted  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  —  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  give 
in  an  Estimate  of  the  Sum  necessary  to  be  raised  for  defraying 
the  Expencies  of  the  Current  Year,  and  that  they  determine  upon 
such  Appropriations  of  the  Same  as  they  shall  Judge  to  be  expe- 
dient 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Mr.  Edward  Payne 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
The  Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  —  to  Report  at  the  Ad- 
journment of  this  Meeting 

Adjourned  to  next  Fryclay  seven  Night  being  the  1'.  of  June  3. 
O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

Fryday  the  1st.  Day  of  June  3.  OClock  in  the  Afternoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Samuel  Allyne  Otis  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 
not  being   able   to   give  his  attendance  — The    Inhabitants    were 


200  City  Document  No.  80. 

directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  Votes  for  a  Moderator  Pro 
Tern0. — -And  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and  sorted,  it 
appeared  that 

John  Rowe  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  the  Meeting 

[548.]  Mr.  Benjamin  Sumner,  M1'.  James  Thompson,  & 
Mr.  Thomas  Bayley  three  of  the  Persons  chosen  Collectors  of 
Taxes  for  the  ensuing  Year,  being  in  the  Meeting,  were  called 
upon  to  inform  the  Town,  whether  they  accepted  of  the  choice 
made  of  them  for  Collectors  of  Taxes  —  when  they  answered  in 
the  Affermative 

The  Committee  appointed  to  give  in  an  Estimate  of  the  Sum 
necessary  to  be  raised  for  defraying  the  Expencies  of  the  Current 
year  &  to  determine  how  it  should  be  appropriated,  being  in  the 
Meeting  were  called  upon  for  their  Report  —  whereupon  said 
Committee  Acquainted  the  Town,  that  they  were  not  as  yet  able 
to  make  Report,  and  desired  further  time  for  that  purpose  which 
was  granted  them 

On  a  Motion — Voted,  that  all  Matters,  and  Things,  which 
remain  unfinished  at  this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  next 
General  Town  Meeting  which  may  be  called 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  a  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  12th. 
Day  of  June  Anno  Domini  1781.  3.  O'Clock.  Afternoon  — 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

[549.]  Precept  for  the  choice  of  one  Representative  -  -  - 
read 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  a  Person  to  Represent 
them  in  the  General  Assembly  of  this  Commonwealth  in  the  room 
of  the  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr,  chosen  a  Senator  agreable  to 
a  Precipt  received  for  that  purpose  —  The  Inhabitants  were 
accordingly  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes,  for  one 
Representative,  and  then  it  was  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no 
Votes  will  be  received  by  the  Selectmen  but  such  as  are  unfolded, 
and  from  Persons  who  enter  the  Hall  after  they  have  Voted  and 
remain  untill  the  Poll  is  closed  which  they  propose  shall  be  at 
5  O'Clock. 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  one  Representative,  the  number 
of  the  same  were  found  to  be     -     -     -     -     -     394  and  upon  sort- 
ing them  it  appeared  that 

John  Rowe  Esq''.     ------    300 

was  chosen 

The  choice  of  Representative  being  over  and  declared  by  the 
Selectmen  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  in  Order  that  the 
Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  Other  Affairs  mentioned  in 
the  Warrant ;  accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew  and  brought 
in  their  Votes,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  201 

[550.]  The  Honble.  Benjamin  Austin  Esqr. 

was  chosen 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  Monies  are  necessary 
to  defray  the  Charges  of  the  Current  Year,  and  in  what  manner  the 
same  shall  be  appropriated  —  being  ready  to  Report  —  the  Ques- 
tion was  put  Viz'.  —  Whether  the  same  shall  now  be  taken  up  and 
Acted  upon  —  passed  in  the  Aff ermative 

The  Committee  appointed  to  form  an  Estimate  of  the  Sum  neces- 
sary for  the  Currant  Expencies  of  the  Year,  and  to  appropriate 
it  Report 

That  they  find  the  Sum  expended  last  Year  for  the  expences  of 
the  Town  amounted  in  Specie  to  about  five  thousand  pounds  law- 
full  Money,  as  appears  by  the  Selectmen  and  Overseers  draughts 
which  Sum  the  Committee  are  of  Opinion  will  be  sufficient  for  the 
present  Year 

That  they  find  the  debts  due  from  the  Town  as  by  List  taken  in 
May  1780  —  Amounted  to  about  twelve  thousand  pounds  lawfull, 
Money  in  Specie  exclusive  of  Interest.,  but  what  proportion  of 
these  debts  are  paid  cannot  be  assertained  uutill  the  Treasurer 
liquidate  and  settle  his  Accounts,  with  the  Collectors  and  Others, 
which  the  Treasu.  says  is  impossible  to  be  done  without  a  Suffi- 
cient Assistant ;  if  the  Tax  now  proposed  is  put  into  his  hands 

That  the  Sum  of  Nine  Thousand  Pounds  be  raised,  the  Tax  to 
be  made  in  Gold  or  Silver,  [551.]  and  paid  in  Specie  or  an 
equivalent  in  the  new  Emissions  at  the  rates  affixed  by  the 
Judges  Scale  of  Depretiation  at  the  time  the  Tax  is  essued,  and 
appropriated  as  follows  —  One  third  to  discharge  the  Overseers 
Draughts,  one  third  to  discharge  what  remains  of  the  Selectmen 
and  Overseers  Draughts  for  1779  &  1780 —  (if  there  is  not  suffi- 
cient in  the  Treasury  for  the  purpose)  —  the  Residue  with  what 
may  remain  of  the  two  Other,  appropriations  towards,  discharging 
the  Interest  and  part  of  the  principal  of  the  debts  now  due  from 
the  Town,  and  that  the  Treasurer  be  enjoined  to  pay  to  each  De- 
partment (if  applied  for)  in  Just  proportion  and  time  as  the  Money 
comes  into  his  hands 

That  the  Collectors  settle  their  former  Accounts  immediately 
or  their  Bonds  put  in  Suite,  and  that  they  Collect  the  present  Tax 
as  soon  as  may  be  ;  and  pay  it  into  the  Treasurer  as  soon  as  same 
is  Collected ;  and  if  a  New  Scale  of  Depretiation  is  made,  before 
the  whole  Tax  is  collected,  the  Delinquents  to  pay  according  to 
the  New  Scale  ;  and  no  depretiation  to  be  allowed  the  Collec- 
tors, but  agreeably  to  the  Scale  at  the  time  they  make  their 
payments  to  the  Treasurer 

That  the  Treasurer  be  Directed  to  liquidate  the  debts  and  give 
new  Notes  (to  those  that  choose  it)  including  the  Interest  for  all 
Sums  prior  to  1776  to  be  paid  in  Specie,  and  for  all  [552.] 
Sums  after  that  date,  in  Specie  or  an  equivalent  in  Currency 

That  the  Treasurer  immediately  open  a  New  set  of  Books  to  be 
kept  in  Specie,  the  New  Notes  when  liquidated,  numbered  & 
transferred  into  these  Books,  where  the  Tax  now  proposed,  and 
the  Appropriations  are  to  be  entered 

That  the  Monthly  Draughts  of  the  Selectmen  and  Overseers  be 


202  City  Document  No.  80. 

paid  in  course  as  they  are  drawn  and  no  part  of  the  second 
Month  untill  the  first  (if  applied  for)  are  discharged ;  except  only 
such  Drafts  from  the  Overseer's  as  may  be  in  faviour  of  Persons 
from  the  Country 

That  a  List  be  taken  by  the  Treasurer  of  those  that  are  in  want 
of  the  Monies  borrowed,  and  if  they  exceed  the  Sum  appropriated 
for  the  purpose,  he  proportion  it  in  as  equitable  a  Manner  as  may  be 
That  M1.  Edward  Payne 
Col0.  Josiah  Waters 
Mr.  Herman  Brimmer 
be  a  Committee,  and  upon  the    publication  of  every  new   scale, 
the   Treasurer   immediatlejT   Apply    to    this   Committee     with    an 
Account  of  what  Money  he  has  on  hand,  and  this  Committee  shall 
examine  the  Money,  and  Affix  what  depretiation  there  is  upon  it 
and    Charge  it  to  the  Town,  but  [553.]  if   the    Treasurer  shall 
omit   to  apply  as  aforesaid  he  shall  have  no  allowance  for  any 
depretiation  whatever. 

That  a  Copy  of  this  Report  be  delivered  to  each  of  this  Com- 
mittee who  are  desired  to  see  the  aforegoing  regulations  are  put 
in  Execution  at  the  Treasury 

Joseph  Barrel  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  taken  up  and  considered, 
paragraph  by  Paragraph  —  the  Question  was  put  —  Viz4. — Whether 
the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Whereas  great  inconveniences  and  embarressments  have  arisen 
in  the  Treasurers  Accounts  from  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  not  set- 
tling their  Accounts  and  paying  the  Sums  committed  to  them  to 
Collect  in  the  course  of  the  Year  therefor  Voted,  that  no  Person 
who  has  heretofore  been  a  Collector  of  Taxes  shall  be  hereafter 
chosen  into  that  Office  untill  he  has  settled  his  Accounts  and  paid 
into  the  Treasurey  the  whole  Sum  committed  to  him  to  Collect  — 
his  Commissions  and  any  Abatement  the  Assessors  may  make  him 
being  deducted 

Moved,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  agree  with  one 
or   more    suitable    Person    or    Persons    to   Assist  Mr.   Treasurer 
Jeffries  —  and  the  Question  being  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 
Voted,  that  Mr.  Edward  Payne 
Col".  Josiah  Waters 
Mr.  Herman  Brimmer 
Mr.  Alexr.  Hodsdon 
be  a  Committee  for  that  purpose 


Boston  Town  Kecords,  1781.        203 


BOSTON    TOWN    RECORDS. 


[SEVENTH   BOOK.] 


The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4.  —  To  consider  the  Petition  of 
Jonas  Welch,  that  he  may  be  permitted  to  take  in  a  Small  Strip 
of  the  Street  leading  to  the  North  Mills,  for  the  purpose  Mentioned 
in  said  Petition  —  was  read,  and  considered  —  Whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  and  hereby  are  appointed  and  im- 
powered  to  make  Sale  of  the  Land  prayed  for  by  Mr.  Welch,  on 
such  terms  as  they  shall  Judge  proper 

Voted,  that  the  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Thursday  the  21st.  of 
June.  3.  O  Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Thursday  the  21st.  Day  of  June  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon  —  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

Benjamin  Austin  Esqr.  in  the  Chair 

Mr.  Joshua  Beal  chosen  one  of  the  Constables,  in  March  last, 
having  desired  to  be  excused  from  searving  in  that  Office,  he  was 
accordingly  excused  by  the  Town 

The'  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  &  devise  ways,  to  pre- 
vent the  incroachment  of  the  Sea  upon  the  Neck,  as  also  to  en- 
quire into  the  terms  of  Mr.  Sutton  Byles's  Lease  from  the  Town 
of  Land  on  the  Neck 

[2.]  Report,  That  they  have  examined  into  the  conditions  Mr. 
Byles  hired  that  part  of  the  Neck  he  improved,  and  find  he  was  to 
pay  one  Shilling  a  Year  for  the  Rent,  which  he  paid  to  the  Year 
1774  and  has  a  Receipt  in  full  to  that  time  —  they  also  find  there 
was  no  penalty  to  the  Lease,  that  he  was  only  to  re-deliver  the 
possession  thereof  when  the  Town  required  it 

Your  Committee  cannot  devise  any  ways  for  the  Town  to  pre- 
vent the  incroachment  of  the  Sea,  but  building  a  Stone  Wall  which 
they  apprehend  the  Town  in  their  present  circumstances  are  not 
able  to  do,  Unless  they  should  think  proper  to  make  application  to 
the  General  Court  for  a  Lottery  to  raise  a  sum  of  Money  Sufficient 
for  that  purpose 

Gibbins  Sharp  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  —  Viz'.  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 


204  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Committee  for  Inlistiug  the  Towns  Quota  for  Men  for  the 
Continental  Army  —  Reported  verbally 

That  they  had  still  Money  on  hand  for  the  purpose  of  hiring 
Men  having  been  greatly  disappointed  by  the  Obstructions  thrown 
in  their  way,  by  a  Mr.  Griffis  &  Others  and  that  it  is  the  Opinion 
of  the  Committee  that  unless  some  Method  can  be  devised  to  re- 
move those  difficulties  [3.]  there  is  but  little  probability  the 
Number  to  be  raised  by  the  Town  will  be  compleated  as  there  is 
still  wanting  —  45  —  or  46  Men,  &  they  only  expect  to  procure  a 
few  Others  —  that  they  have  now  in  hand  of  the  Money  Collected 
of  the  several  Classes,  about  Six  hundred  &  fifty  pounds  Specie 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  consider'd  by  the  Town,  it 
was  thereupon  Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Committee  be  desired 
to  continue  their  good  services  untill  the  30th  Day  of  June  next 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  two  Constables,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  Appeared  that 

Messrs.  George  Thomas 
John  Cook 
were  chosen  Constables  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  all  Matters,  &  things  which  remain  un- 
finished at  this  Meeting  be  referred  to  the  next  General  Town 
Meeting 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  here- 
by are  given  to  Benjamin  Austin  Esqr.  for  his  good  services  as 
Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


[4.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  Other  Inhabitants 
of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  pub- 
lick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Thursday  the 
28th.  Day  of  June  Anno  Domini  1781  —  3.  O.  Clock  P:  M: 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator,  and  the  Votes  being  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz'. 

"  To  consider  what  proper  Measures  may  be  immediately  pur- 
sued for  carrying  into  full  effect  the  Resolves  of  the  General 
Assembly  of  the  22d.  of  June  Ins1,  for  procuring  the  Towns 
proportion  of  the  Beef,  for  the  Continental   Army  "  was  read 

The  foregoing  Vote  of  the  General  Court  relative  to  the  pro- 
curing live  Beef,  was  also  read  —  and  after  the  same  had  been 
considered,  it  was  moved  and,  Voted,  that,  a  Committee  be  ap- 
pointed to  consider  what  may  be  the  most  speedy  and  effectual 
Measures  for  procuring  the  Towns  proportion  of  live  Beef  [5.] 
for  the  Continental  Army  agreeable  to  the  Resolve  of  the  General 
Court  passed  the  22  Inst  —  is  also  to  confer  with  any  Person  or 
Persons,  who  may  appear  willing  to  furnish  said  Beef  ;  and  to 
devise  ways  and  means  for  procuring  the  Money  necessary  for  the 
purpose  aforesaid  and  Report  thereon  at  the  Adjournment 


Boston   Town   Records,   1781.  205 

Voted,  that  Allen  Otis,  Esq1". 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Charles  Miller  Esq''. 
John  Rowe  Esq1'. 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  — ■  Vizfc  —  To  consider  and  determine 
upon  the  Most  speedy  and  effectual  Measures  for  raising  the  Towns 
Quota  of  Men,  according  to  a  Resolution  of  the  General  Assembly 
in  their  Sessions  —  was  read  —  Whereupon,  it  was  moved  & 
Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this  Article  be  referred  to  the 
Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.  "  To  consider  what  is  neces- 
sary to  be  done  for  the  immediate  Relief  and  support  of  the  Poor  in 
the  Alms  house  "  —  was  read,  and  considered  —  whereupon  a  Mo- 
tion was  Made,  that  application  be  made  to  the  Revd.  Ministers 
that  a  Collection  be  made  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  in  their  Re- 
spective Congregations  —  considerable  Objections  being  made 
to  this  proposal  the  Motion  was  withdrawn 

[6.]     And  another  Motion  made,  it  was, 

Voted,  that  the  Gentelmen  the  Overseer's  of  the  Poor  be  desired 
to  prepare  a  State  of  the  destresses  of  the  Poor  in  the  Almshouse, 
and  furnish  a  Copy  thereof  to  the  Ministers  of  the  G-ospel  of  all 
Denominations  through  the  Town,  requesting  them  to  communi- 
cate the  same  to  their  respective  Congregations  .the  next  Lords 
Day,  and  before  the  Congregations  are  dismissed,  enforced  with 
such  Arguments,  as  to  them  shall  Appear,  most  conducive  to  en- 
gage the  Attention  of  the  People  to  the  same- — also  to  inform 
them  that  a  Committee  of  the  Town  will  wait  on  them  for  Sub- 
scriptions in  the  Several  Wards,  on  the  next  Tuesday  the  Amount 
of  which  will  be  discounted  out  of  the  Tax  now  laid,  and  that  the 
Overseer's  be  furnished  with  attested  Copies  of  this  Vote  for  the 
Minister's  also, 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  of  the  Several  Wards  for  procuring 
Subscriptions  for  the  Almshouse,  be  desired  to  renew  their  appli- 
cations, for  that  purpose,  more  particularly  on  Tuesday  next,  re- 
ceiving the  Subscriptions  in  Specie  only,  —  And  that  the  Town 
Clerk  furnish  the  respective  Chairmen  with  a  Copy  of  this  Vote 

Adjourned  to  Thursday  next  being  the  5th  Day  of  July,  3. 
O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

[7.]  Thursday  the  5th  of  July,  3.  O'Clock  —  Afternoon,  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  of  Ways  and  Means  for 
procuring  the  Towns  quota  of  Beef  for  the  Supply  of  the  Army, 
Agreeable  to  the  Monthly  Assessments  by  Order  of  the  General 
Court,  having  made  the  necessary  enquiry,  find,  that  Mr.  Phelps 
Superintendent  of  Purchases,  will  procure  the  whole  quantity 
wanted  by  the  Town  upon  the  most  Advantageous  Terms,  expect- 
ing only  a  small  consideration  for  his  trouble,  and  that  he  will 
engage  that  the  Beef  for  the  first  Month  shall  not -exceed  forty 
Shillings  Specie  p  hundred 


206  City  Document  No.  80. 

Your  Committee  represent  that  Contracts  might  have  been  made 
for  two  three  or  Six  Months,  but  as  the  Season  Advances  they 
think  it  probable  Beef  will  become  cheaper  and  preferable  to 
employ  Mr.  Phelps  to  make  the  Monthly  purchases  upon  the  lowest 
possible  terms,  one  great  Advantage  of  this  Mode,  is  Mr.  Phelps 
can  give  the  Town  a  few  Weeks  to  Collect  the  Money,  besides 
which  no  difficulty  can  arise  as  to  the  quantity  none  can  be  turn'd 
in  that  Mr.  Phelps  can  make  an  Objection  to,  himself  being  the 
purchaser 

The  means  of  payment  your  Committee  suppose  can  only  be 
dirived  from  a  hard  Money  Tax,  which  they  recommend  should  be 
added  to  the  tax  now  essuing  —  the  whole  Sum  Necessary  [8.] 
to  be  raised  is  about  £2400  —  in  Specie  —  Six  hundred  Pounds  of 
which  to  be  collected  in  ten  Days  after  the  delivery  of  the  Tickets, 
and  then  paid  immediately  into  the  hands  of  the  Treasurer  or  a 
Committee  for  the  special  purpose  ;  said  Money  to  be  paid  to  Mr. 
Phelps  or  his  order  to  enable  him  to  go  on  with  his  purchases ; 
the  other  Eighteen  hundred  pounds  to  be  Collected  and  paid  into 
the  Hands  of  the  Treasurer  or  said  Committee  on  or  before  the 
first  Day  of  October  next  for  the  purpose  all  which  is  submitted 

Tno^iAS  Walley  p  Order 
The  foregoing  Report  having  been   read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  Viz*.  — Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative  also 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Twenty  four  hundred  pounds  in  Specie 
be  immediately  raised  by  a  tax  on  the  Polls  and  rateable  Estates 
of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Towns,  Tax  Six  hundred  pounds  part 
thereof  to  be  paid  into  the  Treasurey,  within  ten  Days  after  the 
delivery  of  the  Tickets  and  the  remaining  Eighteen  hundred 
pounds  to  be  Collected  and  paid  into  the  Treasurey  by  the  first 
Day  of  October  next,  the  whole  of  said  Monies,  to  be  Appropri- 
ated for  procuring  the  Town  Quota  of  Beef  for  the  Use  of  the  Con- 
tinental Army 

[9.]         Voted,  that  Allen  Otis  Esqr. 

Stephen  Higginson  P2sqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Charles  Miller  Esqr. 
John  Rowe  Esqr. 
be  and  they  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Contract  with 
Oliver  Phelps  Esqr.  for  the  live  Beef  wanted  by  the  Town  Agrea- 
ble  to  the  Report  of  the  Committee  I'elative  to  procuring  Beef 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  the  Article  in  the 
Warrant  relative  to  raising  Men  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

The  Committee  for  raising  the  Towns  proportion  of  Men  for 
the  Continental  Army.  — Reported  verbally.  That  they  had  pro- 
ceeded, so  far  in  raising  Men  as  that  but  forty  One  Men  are  now 
wanting  to  compleat  this  Towns  Quota  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  said  Committee  be  desired  to  continue  their  good 
services,  till  the  further  Orders  of  the  Town 

Moved  and  Voted,  that,  the  Town  Clerk  Advertize  the  business 
of  the  intended  — Adjournment 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Monday  next.  3. 
O'Clock  Afternoon 


Boston  Town  Eecords,  1781.  207 

[10.]  July  9th.  3.  O  Clock  Afternoon  Met  according  to 
Adjournment 

The  Assessors  having  been  desired  to  give  their  Attendance  at 
this  Meeting,  they  Attended  accordingly 

The  Moderator  then  acquainted  them  that  the  Town  would 
wish  to  be  informed  how  soon  the  Tax  Bills  for  the  present  Tax, 
were  like  to  come  out 

The  Assessors  having  taken  some  time  to  consider  the  Matter, 
acquainted  the  Town,  that  it  would  not  be  much  short  of  Six 
Weeks 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Vote  passed  the  5th.  of  July 
Instant,  laying  a  Tax  of  Twenty  four  hundred  pounds  Specie  be 
reconsidered  and  set  Aside  —  And  that  the  Sum  of  Three  thousand 
Pounds  in  Specie  be  immediately  raised  by  a  Tax  on  the  Polls  and 
rateable  Estates  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town,  Seven  hundred 
and  fifty  Pounds  part  thereof  to  be  paid  into  the  Treasurey 
within  Ten  Days  After  the  Delivery  of  the  Tickets,  and  the  re- 
maining twenty  two  hundred  and  fifty  Pounds  to  be  Collected  and 
paid  into  the  Treasurey  by  the  first  Day  of  October  next,  the 
whole  of  said  Monies  to  be  appropriated  for  procuring  the  Towns 
Quota  of  Beef  for  the  use  of  the  Continental  Army  —  And  that  no 
Person  [11,]  shall  be  entitled  to  the  five  per  cent  Allowed  by  the 
Vote  Passed  the  316t  of  March  last  who  does  not  pay  the  first 
part  of  the  above  Tax  in  the  Time  limitted  in  this  Vote  ;  and  that 
this  Sum  be  Added  to  the  Tax  now  issuing,  and  that  the  same  be 
placed  in  distinct  Columns  on  the  Tickets  to  be  delivered  to  the 
Inhabitants 

Whereas  by  a  Report  of  a  Committee  appointed  to  form  an 
Estimate  of  the  Sum  necessary  for  the  Expencies  of  the  Current 
Year,  it  was  Voted  June  12th.  that  the  Sum  of  Nine  Thousand 
Pounds  should  be  raised,  the  Tax  to  be  made  in  Gold  and  Silver 
and  paid  in  Specie  or  an  equivalent  in  Bills  of  the  new  Emission  at 
the  rate  of  depreciation  affixed  by  Judges  Scale  at  the  time  of  the 
Tax  being  issued 

And  whereas  by  a  late  Act  of  the  General  Assembly  of  this 
Commonwealth,  the  former  Act  impowering  the  Judges  of  the 
Supreme  Judicial  Court  to  regulate  the  depreciation  of  the  Paper 
Currency  is  repealed,  and  no  such  Scale  of  Depreciation  is  likely 
to  take  place  —  therefore 

Voted,  that  the  several  paragraphs,  in  the  said  Report  relating 
to  the  Sum  to  be  raised,  and  the  Scale  of  depreciation  by  which 
the  same  was  to  be  paid,  be  and  hereby  are  repealed  and  made 
Void 

[12.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Twelve  Thousand  Pounds  be 
raised  by  a  Tax  on  the  Polls,  and  rateable  Estates  of  the  Inhab- 
itants of  this  Town,  for  defreying  the  necessary  Expences  for  the 
Year  ensuing  —  And  that  the  Tax  be  made  in  Gold  or  Silver,  and 
paid  in  Specie  or  Bills  of  this  State  of  the  new  Emission  at  the 
rate  of  one  and  seven  Eighths  of  the  new  Emission  for  one  hard 
Dollar,  and  that  the  same  be  appropriated  as  mentioned  in  the 
Report  of  said  Committee 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  Contract  with  Mr.  Phelps  for  live 


208  City  Document  No.  80. 

Beef  Reported  a  Letter  they  had  wrote  to  him  a  Copy  of  which  is 
on  file 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  next 
Monday  being  the  16th  of  July  Ins':  3  O'Clock  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  to  that  time 

Monday  the  16th.  Day  of  July  3.  O'Clock,  Afternoon  —  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Treasurer  Jeffries  appeard,  and  desired  the  Town  would 
give  him  their  Opinion  with  respect  to  these  two  Questions  Viz'. 

1st.  Is  the  Town  Treasurer  to  receive  of  the  Old  Continental 
Bills,  of  the  Collectors  for  pavment  of  Taxes  yet  remaining  due  of 
the  Two  £250,000,  [13.]  —  or  £500,000  —  Voted,  to  be  raised 
July  and  October  1780 

2d.  Is  the  Town  Treasurer  to  receive  of  the  Collectors  any 
Other  than  Bills  of  the  New  Emission  for  what  is  due  from  them 
of  the  £9000  —  Tax  of  said  new  Emission,  Voted,  December  last 
for  payment  of  the  2d.  Quota  of  Beef  —  After  some  debate  the 
Question  was  put.  Viz'.  —  Whether  it  be  the  Sense  of  the  Town 
that  the  Town  Treasurer  should  take  the  Act  of  the  General 
Assembly  passed  the  6.  of  July  Inst  for  his  rule  of  Conduct 
relative  to  the  Questions  proposed  —  Passed  in  the  Afferma- 
tive 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed,  to 
consider  and  Report  what  they  shall  Judge  to  be  a  suitable  allow- 
ance to  the  Town  Treasurer  for  past  services 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  last  appointed  to  consider  a  suitable 
allowance  to  the  School  Masters  Viz'. 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Town  do  now  reconsider  and  set 
aside  the  Vote  passed  giving  the  Town  Treasurer  their  Opinion  on 
the  Questions  proposed  by  him  at  this  Meeting 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  all  matters  and  things  which  remain 
unfinished  at  this  Meeting  be  referred  for  consideration  to  the  next 
Town  Meeting 

[14.]  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  a*nd  ^hereby  are 
given  to  Mr.  Thomas  Walley  for  his  good  services  as  Moderator 
of  this  Meeting  — 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston,  duly  qualified,  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Thursday  the  16 
Day  of  August  Anno  Domini  1781  3.  OClock.  P.M. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  desired  to  withdraw,  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 
was  chosen 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  20i> 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "  Then  and  there  agreable  to 
the  request  of  a  Number  of  the  Inhabitants,  to  devise  some  ef- 
fectual and  speedy  method  of  raising  Money  for  the  payment  of 
the  four  Months  Quota  of  Beef  for  the  Continental  Army,  already 
become  due  —  was  read,  aud  after  some  debate  had  thereon  —  It 
was  moved,  that  the  Assessors  be  desired  to  attend  at  this  Meet- 
ing, they  accordingly  Attended,  and  being  Asked  [15.]  Whether 
the  Tax  Books  were  ready  to  be  delivered  the  Collectors  of  Taxes 
—  Answered  —  "  That  by  the  latter  end  of  the  next  Week,  the 
Tax  Books  will  be  compleated  " 

It  was  then  moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  Ap- 
pointed, to  hire  One  hundred  Pounds,  which  is  now  wanted  to 
discharge  a  draught  of  Mr.  Phelps,  for  Beef  purchased  to  that 
Amount 

It  was  moved  and  Voted,  the  foregoing  Vote,  be  reconsidered,- 
and  that  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  desired  to  apply  immediately 
to  the  Inhabitants,  and  urge  their  advancing  their  Beef  Tax  ii 
order  to  discharge  Mr.  Phelps  draught  for  the  Beef  he  has  pro 
cured  for  the  Town,  for  which  they  are  by  a  Vote  passed  the  ninth 
Day  of  July  last,  to  have  five  per  cent  deducted  from  their  respec- 
tive Taxes  for  the  Sum  so  advanced  —  the  Collectors  to  give 
Receipts  accordingly  and  the  Money  received  by  them  to  be  paid 
into  the  Town  Treasury 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what  is  neces- 
sary to  be  done  for  procuring  the  Towns  proportion  of  Clothing 
for  the  Continental  Army  "  —  was  read  whereupon  it  was  moved 
and  carried,  that  a  Committee  be  now  Appointed  to  take  this 
Article  into  consideration,  and  Report  their  Opinion  thereon  at 
the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

[16.]      Voted,  that  The  Moderator 

Samuel  Allen  Otis  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esq1". 
Mr.  Nathaniel  Barret 
Mr.  Daniel  Bell 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz'.  To  determine  what  Allowances 
shall  be  made  the  School  Masters  "  —  was  read,  whereupon 
Voted,  that  Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Lowell  be 
a  Committee  before  appointed  to  consider  what  may  be  adequate 
Grants  to  the  School   Masters,  be  desired  to  make  Report  at  the 
Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "  To  consider  what  steps 
shall  be  taken  for  the  better  security  of  the  Town  in  the  Night 
Season"  was  read,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this  Matter  be  referred  to  the 
Adjournment  —  reconsidered 

The  Moderator  Col°.  Daws  having  informed  the  Town  "  that  he 
had  obtained  a  Return  of  the  Men  now  in  the  Continental  Army" 
it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  imploy 
a  Suitable  Person  to  arange,  said  Returns,  that  it  may  clearly 
appear,  and  be  determined  what  proportion  of  Men  this  Town  has 
procured  for  the  Continental  Army 


210  City  Document  No.  80. 

[17.]  The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  and  Report  an 
allowance  to  be  made  the  Town  Treasurer  for  his  Services  for  the 
Year  1780  —  Reported  the  following  Vote  which  was  accepted  b}- 
the  Town  —  Viz'. 

Voted,  that  David  Jeffries  Esq1',  be  allowed  in  consideration  of 
extra  services,  and  high  prices  of  the  Necessaries  of  Life  Two 
hundred  and  twenty  pounds  Specie  for  his  Services  as  Treasurer 
of  this  City  [sic^  for  the  Year  1 780 

It  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  the  aforegoing  Vote  respecting  the 
"Watchmen  be  reconsidered,  and  that  a  Committee  be  now  ap- 
pointed to  take  this  matter  into  consideration,  and  Report  thereon 
at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting    ' 

Voted,  that  the  G-entelmen  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  for 
the  purpose  aforesaid 

It  was  moved,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall  be 
to  Wednesday  next  being  the  22d.  of  August  Instant  at  3.  O'Clock 
Afternoon  then  to  meet  at  this  place 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Wednesday  August  22d  8.  O  Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

[18.]  Col0.  Daws  in  the  Chair —  The  Selectmen  being  a  Com- 
mittee to  take  up  the  Matter  in  the  Notification  relating  to  the 
Town  Watch  do  Report. 

That  the  State  of  the  Town  Treasurey  being  at  present  such  that 
Money  cannot  be  Obtained  for  paying  the  Watchmen,  therefore  in 
order  to  preserve  the  safety  of  the  Town  in  the  Night,  that  the 
Captain  of  each  Military  Company  be  desired  to  select  out  of  each- 
Military  Ward  two  discreat  Persons  to  do  duty  for  one  Night, 
and  so  on  every  Night  in  rotation,  that  one  third  of  the  Company 
so  appointed  take  care  of  the  South  part  of  the  Town,  one  third 
the  Middle  part  of  the  Town,  and  the  Other  third,  the  North  part 
of  the  Town,  this  to  continue  till  the  Treasury  is  in  a  better  State 
or  untill  the  Town  or  the  Selectmen  shall  otherwise  Order  p  John 
Scollay  Chairman 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  &  debate  had  thereon, 
it  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of  this  mat- 
ter subside  for  the  present 

The  Towns  Committee  to  devise  means  for  procuring  the  Quota 
of   Shirts  Shoes,  &c  for  the  Army —  Report 

That  there  is  plenty  of  Material  for  that  purpose  in  Town  which 
may  probably  be  had  upon  a  credet.  And  that  some  suitable  Per- 
son'be  appointed  to  purchase  the  Articles  [19.]  upon  the  longest 
Credit  and  best  terms  possible  ;  and  that  a  hard  Money  Tax  be 
laid  to  fulfill  the  Contracts  as  Soon  as  may  be 

Samuel  Otis 

p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  Viz': — Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative,  whereupon,  Voted,  that 
Samuel  Allen  Otis  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nathaniel  Barret 
Mr.  Daniel  Hell 


Boston   Town   Records,   1781.  211 

be  a  Committee  to  procure  those  Articles  Agreeable  to  the  fore- 
going Reports,  and  when  clone  to  lay  their  Accounts  before  the 
Selectmen  in  order  to  obtain  their  Draughts  upon  the  Treasury, 
for  Payment  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  Thousand  Pounds,  in  Gold  or 
Silver  be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon  the  Polls  &  Rateable  Estates  of 
the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town,  and  that  the  same  be  paid  into  the 
Town  Treasurey,  and  Appropriated  for  discharging  the  Accounts 
of  the  Several  Articles  of  Clothing  procured  as  aforesaid 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  the  Town  Watch  again 
taken  up,  and  after  considerable  debate  had  thereon,  it  was 
Moved  & 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  proceed  in  the  Old  way 
of  hiring  suitable  Persons  to  compose  the  Town  Watch,  the  Town 
not  accepting  the  said  Report 

[20.]  The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  and  Report  what 
Allowances  should  be  made  the  School  Masters  are  of  Opinion 

That  considering  the  high  prices  of  Provisions,  Fuel  &c  —  They 
be  allowed  for  the  next  three  Months,  commencing  from  the  last 
Grant  made  them,  to  the  first  Day  of  September  next,  double  the 
Sum  in  Specie  granted  them  respectively  in  the  Year  1774. 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  considered.  — 
Question  was  put  —  Viz' :  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  &  things  which  remain  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  next  General  Town  Meeting, 
then  to  be  acted  upon 

Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given  to 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr.  for  his  good  services  as  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved* 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other 
Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston  in 
publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at 
Faneuil  Hall  being  duly  qualified 
&  legally  warned;  December  [7.]  1781 
[21.]     Warrant  for  calling  Meeting  — read 
The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

The  Honble :  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  was  chosen 
The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz' :   "  To  consider  the  Applica- 
tion of  a  Sister  Town    relative    to   the    Fishery  "  —  was  read  — 
whereupon  Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Letter  from  the   Town  of 
Marblehead,  be  read,  &  it  was  accordingly  read 

It  was  then  Moved,  that  a  time  be  now  Assigned  for  the  consid- 
eration of  said  Letter  from  Marblehead,  but  another  Motion  being 
made  and  seconded,  that  the  consideration  of  this  matter  subside 
for  the  present  &  that  the  Article  relative  to  Grants  be  now  taken 
up  —  the  Question  was  put,  &  passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz' :   "  To  consider  and  grant  such 


212  City  Document  No.  80. 

Sums  of  Money,  and  in  such  manner  as  may  be  Judged  needfull 
for  the  payment  of  the  School  Masters,  for  the  Relief,  of  the 
Poor,  and  for  defraying  other  necessary  Charges  ;  the  Tax  laid  in 
March  last,  for  said  purposes  having  been  collected  almost  wholy 
in  Monies  of  the  New  Emmission,  now  out  of  circulation"  was 
read  —  [22.]  Whereupon  it  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Committee 
be  now  appointed  to  take  this  Article  into  consideration,  and  to 
Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  :  the  Sum  necessary  to 
be  raised  for  the  purpose  aforesaid. 

Voted,  that  Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason  Senr. 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
William  Phillips  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  said  purpose,  and  that  this  Committee  be  In- 
structed to  lay  before  the  Town  a  List  of  the  necessary  charges  of 
the  Town 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Letter  from  Marblehead,  be  again 
read  —  and  the  Letter  being  read  accordingly 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  take  the  Subject 
matter  of  this  Letter  into  consideration,  and  Report  at  the 
Adjournment 

Voted,  that  the  Honble :  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
Samuel  A.  Otis  Esqr. 
Isaac  Smith  Esq1'. 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz*.  —  "To  consider  and  Act  upon 
the  Memorial  of  the  Assessors,  relative  to  Delinquent  Classes  and 
Individuals  of  each  of  those  Classes  —  was  read  [23.]  And 
Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  take  the  Memorial 
of  the  Assessors  and  the  Papers  accompanying  the  same  into  con- 
sideration, and  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting. 
Voted,  that      Majr :  Melville 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  W  alley  —  excused 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
to  be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall 
be  to  the  Representatives  Chamber  —  provided  leave  can  be  ob- 
tained for  that  purpose 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  to  Tuesday  the 
11"'  Day  of  December  Instant.  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon,  then 
to  meet  at  the  Representatives  Chamber 

Tuesday  the  11th  Day  of  December  3.  O  Clock  Afternoon,  Met 
according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  take  the  following  Article  in  the 
Warrant  into  consideration  —  Viz1  :  "To  consider  and  grant  such 
Sums  of  Monies  and  in  such  manner  as  may  be  Judged  needfull 
for  the  payment  of  the  School  Masters,  for  the  relief  of  the  Poor, 
and  for  defraying  other  necessary  charges,  the  Tax  laid   in    March 


Boston   Town    Records,   1781.  213 

last  for    said  purpose,  having  been  Collected    almost  wholly  in 
Monies  of  the  New  Emission  now  out  of  Circulation"  —  Report 

[24.]  That  having  examined  the  Estimate  on  which  they 
formed  their  Report  in  May  last,  and  finding  the  Tax  granted  at 
that  time,  was  to  be  paid  in  Bills  of  the  New  Emission  which  were 
soon  after  out  of  Circulation,  and  consequently  no  part  of  the 
Selectmens  Draughts  for  the  payment  of  Schoolmasters,  and 
Other  Servants  of  the  Town,  nor  those  of  the  Overseer's  for  the 
support  of  the  Poor  have  been  paid 

The  Committee  are  of  Opinion  that  the  Sum  of  Twelve  Thou- 
sand Pounds  lawfull  Monie,  or  £22,500  in  Bills  of  the  new  Emis- 
sion, was  Voted  in  May  last  to  be  raised  by  a  Tax,  and  one  third 
of  said  Sum  to  be  appropriated  to  discharge  part  of  the  Debts  due 
from  the  Town  for  Monies  borrowed,  which  Tax  being  to  be  paid 
in  Bills  of  the  New  Emission,  and  when  received,  the  Whole  will 
remain  useless  in  the  Treasurey  Unless  the  Creditors  of  the  Town 
will  consent  to  receive  their  pay  in  those  Bills  at  some  rate  that 
may  be  agreed  on  by  a  Committee  appointed  for  that  purpose 

The  Committee  therefore  propose  to  the  consideration  of  the 
Town,  whether  they  Will,  at  present  raise  a  further  Sum  by  a  Tax 
to  be  appropriated  towards  the  payment  of  part  of  those  Debts, 
and  let  those  Bills  remain  in  the  Treasury,  untill  Government 
shall  make  provision  for  their  Redemption  —  or  whether  they  will 
appoint  a  Committee  to  dispose  of  said  Bills  on  the  best  terms 
that  can  be  Obtained 

[25.]  The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  ;  after  some 
debate  had  thereon  (it  was  moved  that  a  Committee  be  now  ap- 
pointed agreeable  to  said  Report,  to  dispose  of  the  Bills,  of  the 
New  Emission  Money,  now  in  the  Treasurey,  for  the  most  they  can 
obtain  —  and  the  Question  being  Accordingly  put  —  Passed  in 
the  Negative 

It  was  then  Moved,  that  the  Monies  above  mentioned  be  dis- 
posed of  for  the  payment  of  the  Towns  Debts  —  the  Question 
being  put  —  Passed  in  the  Negative 

It  was  also  moved,  that  the  first  Vote  negativing  the  disposing 
of  said  Monies  as  Reported  by  the  Committee  be  reconsidered, 
and  the  Question  being  put  —  passed  in  the  Negative 

It  was  then 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Six  thousand  Pounds,  be 
raised  by  a  Tax  on  the  Polls  and  ratable  Estates  of  the  Inhabitants 
of  this  Town,  for  defreying  the  necessary  Expences  of  the  present 
Year 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  Appointed,  to 
waite  upon  his  Excellency  the  Governor,  to  Acquaint  him  with  the 
Apprehensions  of  the  Inhabitants,  of  dangers  from  a  Vessels  lay- 
ing near  the  Town,  said  to  have  several  thousand  barrels  of 
Powder  on  board  and  praying  his  Excellency  to  take  such  Meas- 
ures thereon,  as  he  may  apprehend  the  safety  of  the  Town  requires 
—  also 

Voted,  that  the  Gentlemen  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  for 
that  purpose 

[26.]     The  Committee  Appointed  to   take  the  Matter  of  the 


214  City  Document  No.  80. 

Letter  from  the  Town  of  Marblehead  relative  to  the  Fishery,  into 
consideration  Reported  a  set  of  Instructions  to  be  given  the  Gen- 
telmen  who  Represent  this  Town  in  the  General  Court  —  as  also  a 
sircular  Letter  to  be  forwarded  by  the  Selectmen  — And  the  Same 
having  been  read  —  the  Question  was  put.  Viz'.  Whether  the 
Town  will  now  Instruct  their  Representatives  relative  to  the  Fish- 
ery, as  recommended  by  the  Committee,  which  passed  in  the 
Affermative 

The  Instructions  Reported  by  the  Committee  being  read  and 
considered,  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  said  Instructions  be 
given  to  the  Gentlemen  who  Represent  the  Town  in  the  General 
Court  —  passed  in  the  Affermative  —  The  Instructions  are  as 
follows  —  Viz4. 

Gentlemen, 

The  brilliant  successes  which  have  attended  the  Allied  Arms 
through  the  course  of  the  proceeding  Campaign,  afords  us  the 
most  nattering  prospects  that  our  Enemies  (though  hitherto  Obste- 
nate  to  a  degree  of  infatuation)  will  soon  sue  for  Peace.  —  In  the 
conditions  of  that  Peace,  Your  constituants  feel  themselves  as 
deeply  and  immediately  interested  as  any  Part  of  the  Powers  at 
War  ;  but  from  an  equal  desire  to  promote  the  general  welfare  of 
the  Federal  Republick,  and  the  Safety  &  [27.]  Happiness  of  this 
Commonwealth,  they  think  it  their  duty  to  Open  to  you  their  Sen- 
tements  on  the  importance  of  that  Principle  Branch  of  the  Eastern 
Trade,  the  Fishery,  and  the  Necessaty  of  confirming  a  rite  to  it  by 
an  express  Article  of  the  Treaty  of  Peace The  present  De- 
cayed State  of  a  Number  of  our  Maritime  Towns  contrasted  with 
their  nourishing  Situation  previous  to  the  present  Contest,  is  a 
striking  proof,  not  only  of  the  Advantages  of  the  Fishery  to  the 
commercial  part  of  the  Commonwealth,  but  the  immediate  ruin 
that  follows  the  want  of  it ;  and  if  any  of  their  Sister  Towns  can 
boast  more  eligible  circumstances,  their  riches  are  derived  from  a 

source  which  is  but  temporary  and  will  last  only  with  the  War 

The  stagnation  of  the  Fishery  furnished  us  with  means,  for  Cr 
using  against  the  Enemy's  property,  and  its  to  the  astonishing 
Successes  that  have  hitherto  Attended  that  kind  of  enterprize  that 
we  owe  the  principle  part  of  our  present  Trade  —  And  though  the 
Merchants  of  some  of  our  Seaports  have  lately  made  considerable 
importations  from  the  differant  European  Markets,  yet  'tis  from  a 
Source  not  more  lasting  than  the  Other,  that  they  derive  then- 
Ability  to  do  it.  The  introduction  of  Foreign  Armies  an  Navies 
amongest  us,  has  created  great  demands  for  our  internal  Supplies 
those  Supplies  have  furnished  our  Merchants  with  exchange,  and 
enabled  them  to  make  large  remittances. 

[28.]  h\  Addition  to  which  the  Exportation  of  Gold  and 
Silver,  dining  the  Paper  currency,  has  constituted  no  inconsid- 
erable part  of  the  Ballance  of  our"Trade.  —But  if  it  is  Obvious  to 
the  Eye  of  every  One,  that  these  resources  of  our  Wealth  must 
inevitably  fail  with  the  War — And  in  a  Time  of  Peace,  like  all 
Other  Nations,  we  must  depend  only  upon  the  Staple  Commodities 
of  our  own  Country,  for  the  Support  of  our  commerce  —  These 
commodities  exclusive  of  the  Fishery,  will  consist  only  of  Lumber, 


Boston   Town   Records,  1781.  215 

and  a  small  quantity  of  Inland  Provisions.  These  Articles  were 
never  supposed  more  than  Sufficient  to  ballauce  our  West  India 
Importations  ;  for  every  European  Article  of  consumption  there- 
fore (which  was  formerly  paid  for  by  our  Fish  and  Oyl)  the  Trade 
must  be  in  debt.  How  fast  that  debt  will  accumilate,  &  how 
long  it  will  take  to  ruin  the  Trade,  &  impoverish  the  Country, 
may  be  seen  by  the  calculations  of  the  Merchants  of  this  Town  in 
the  year  1769,  by  which  it  appears  that  upwards  of  Four  hundred 
Vessells  were  constantly  employed  in  the  Fishery,  and  the  Annual 
Profits  of  their  Labour  amounted  to  upwards  of  £160,000  Sterling  ; 
the  whole  of  this  was  remitted  to  Great  Britain  for  payment  of  the 
Merchandizes,  Annually  imported  from  that  Island  :  —  It  therefore 
follows  that  without  this  Staple,  we  must  either  Content  ourselves 
to  forego  the  Use  of  all  European  commodities,  or  become  meer 
carriers  [29.]  to  the  rest  of  the  World ;  the  former  from  habit 
is  become  impracticable  ;  and  the  latter  is  too  Mortifying  to  sub- 
mit to,  and  to  inconsiderable  in  its  prospects  to  be  considered  as 
an  Equivalent. 

It  is  hence  also  easey  to  conceive  (though  we  Apprehend  need- 
less to  urge)  of  how  vast  an  importance  the  preservation  of  this 
Trade  is  to  every  Other  part  of  the  Commonwealth  —  The  various 
Mechanicks,  necessarily  employed  iir  the  building,  rigging  and 
fitting  out  such  a  Number  of  Vessels,  must  without  it  be  destitute 
of  Subsistance  ;  And  the  great  quantities  of  provisions,  expended 
by  our  Fishermen,  and  the  Timber  made  use  of  in  Building  the 
Vessells,  together  with  the  Staves,  Hoops,  &c.  made  use  of  in 
the  exportation  of  the  Fish  &  Oyl,  will  convince  us,  that  the  loss 
of  the  Fishery  must  essentially  affect  our  inland  Brethren  ;  And 
without  urging  the  more  remote  Argument,  that  the  wealth  & 
Strength  of  every  Nation  depends  on  the  prosperity,  and  increase 
of  its  commerce  it  is  evident,  that  the  vast  debt  we  have  found 
it  necessary  to  contract  in  the  present  War,  together  with  all  the 
publick  Taxes  we  may  hereafter  be  Oblidged  to  raise,  on  the  fail- 
ure of  the  Trade,  or  in  proportion  to  its  dimenution,  must  In- 
evitably fall  on  the  Landed  Interest  —  And  when  they  consider, 
what  a  great  Part  of  the  Publick  Taxes  is  paid  by  the  Mercantile 
Towns,  and  that  the  Country  are  in  a  great  Measure  enabled  to 
pay  their  proportion  of  them  by  vending  their  produce  in  the  Sea 
Ports,  it  is  clear,  that  upon  the  depopulation  of  the  Maritime,  and 
the  additional  [30.]  Weight  of  Taxes  on  the  Country  Towns, 
which  must  follow  the  loss  of  our  Trade,  the  Burthen  will  be  to 
them  Intolerable  —  But  the  reasons  need  not  be  local  For  though 
the  Inhabitants  of  the  other  States  are  not  so  immediately  af- 
fected by  the  loss  of  the  Fishery,  yet  we  conceive  it  not  less  im- 
portant to  the  whole  Confederacey,  than  to  us,  in  its  political 
Consequences.  —  Their  future  rank  among  the  Nations  of  the 
Earth  will  depend  on  their  Naval  Strength  ;  &  if  they  mean  to 
be  a  Commercial  People,  it  behoves  them  to  be  Able  at  all  times 
to  protect  their  Commerce  ;  —  The  means  by  which  the}'  can  pro- 
cure that  protection  &  Naval  Strength,  is  to  give  incouragemeut 
to  that  kind  of  Trade  among  themselves,  which  will  best  serve  as 
a  Nursery  for  Seamen. 


216  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  importance  of  the  Fishery  in  this  view  is  obvious  from  the 
valuable  acquisitions  made  in  the  beginning  of  the  War  by  our 
Privateers,  seven  eighths  of  which  where  manned  from  this  source: 
—  And  though  from  this  circumstance  our  Enemies,  Open  and 
Secreat,  have  endeavoured  to  allarm  the  Other  States  of  the  Union 
with  an  Idea,  that  the  possession  of  the  Fishery  will  give  a 
dangerous  Supperiority  of  Strength  to  the  Eastern  States,  &  so 
have  Attempted  to  disunit  us  in  the  claim  of  it ;  yet  we  are  con- 
fident, their  wicked  designs  must  prove  abortive,  when  'tis  con- 
sidered that  (if  we  were  disposed  to  be  a  faithless  and  a  treacherous 
People)  [31.]  Our  Necessities  for  the  Use  of  the  Southern  com- 
modities, and  the  Advantages  we  shall  derive  thereby  a  Circuitous 
Trade  from  Their  Ports  to  Foreign  Markets,  will  forever  make  it 
the  Interest  of  Eastern  States  to  preserve  the  Confederation  per- 
petual ;  and  will  always  be  a  Security  to  the  Southern  States 
against  the  abuse  of  any  Superiority  of  Strength  which  the  Fishery 
may  be  supposed  to  give  us.  —  Should  it  be  said,  that  the  Right 
we  claim,  is  a  Right  Common  to  all  Nations,  and  that  we  shall 
therefore  be  intitled  to  the  use  of  it,  whether  it  is  made  an  express 
Article  of  Treaty  or  not :  —  We  answer,  that  it  can  injure  no 
Power  to  confirm  our  Natural  rights  by  express  Acknowledge- 
ment, if  they  honestly  intend  we  shall  enjoy  them  ;  and  if  they 
decline  making  this  Acknowledgment,  it  is  a  just  cause  of  sus- 
picion that  their  intentions  are  not  honest.  —  But  we  know  the 
Haughty  Kingdom  with  whome  we  are  at  War  ;  and  her  annalls 
furnish  us  with  instances  of  her  Sovereigns  claiming  by  solemn 
Acts  the  Empire  of  the  Seas,  and  setting  bounds  to  Other  In- 
depenclant  Nations  in  the  Use  of  that  element,  to  which  by  the 
Laws  of  Nature,  they  had  an  equal  Title.  And  France  herself 
(now  the  greatest  Naval  Power  upon  Earth)  has  found  it  necessary 
to  be  admitted  by  Treaty  to  the  participation  of  that  very  right 
for  which  we  now  contend.  —  And  wh}T  should  we  imagine  That 
Great  Britain  will  be  more  tender  of  the  Natural  rights  of  the 
United  States,  than  she  has  been  of  those  of  Other  Nations,  who 
were  [32. J  Infinately  better  Able  to  resist  her  unlawfull  Claims 
upon  the  Ocean.  —  On  the  contrary,  have  we  not  every  reason  to 
expect,  that  her  Resentment,  heightened  by  disappointment  will 
induse  her  to  revenge  her  Self  on  the  States,  as  soon  as  a  Con- 
venient Oppertunity  presents  its  self  ;  &  unless  this  Rite  is  guar- 
anteed to  us  by  the  Negotiating  Powers  she  will  undoubtedly 
make  this  the  Cause  of  her  Quarrel:  and  the  Instant  she  Attacks 
on  this  Pretence,  the  whole  Confederacy  must  be  involved  in  a 
War;  —  For  the  Fishery  having  been  uninteruptedly  enjoyed  by 
our  Ancestors  from  Time  immemorial  &  secured  to  them  by 
Charter,  in  an  Ancient  Priviledge,  &  one  of  those  Liberties,  for 
the  security  of  which,  that  firm  league!  of  Friendship  was  enter'd 
into  by  the  Thirteen  States,  so  clearly  Stipulated  in  the  Third 
Article  of  their  Confederation.  — It  is  therefore  the  duty,  Seconded 
by  the  clearest  interest  of  every  State  within  the  Federal  Union, 
to  have  this  right  explicitly  Acknowledged  in  the  Treaty  of  Peace, 
as  the  only  means  of  securing  to  themselves  a  lasting  &  a  Happy 
one  — From    these    Considerations,    Gentleman,    we    instruct    & 


Boston   Town   Records,    1781.  217 

direct  yon,  in  the  Approaching  Sessions  of  the  Legislature  of  this 
Commonwealth  to  move  for  &  to  nse  your  intluance  to  procure  an 
Application  to  Congress,  that  they  would  give  positive  Instructions 
to  their  Commissioners  for  negotiating  a  Peace,  to  [33.]  make 
the  right  of  the  United  States  to  the  Fishery  an  Indispensible 
Article  of  the  Treaty. 

The  Town  took  into  consideration  the  Circular  Letter  Reported 
by  the  foregoing  Committee,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  a  Circular  Letter  be  sent  by  the  Town  as  recom- 
mended by  said  Committee  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  requested  to  transmit  the  Letter 
that  shall  be  agreed  on,  to  the  Maritime  Towns  in  this  Common- 
wealth also 

Voted,  that  the  Circular  Letter  Reported  by  the  Committee 
aforesaid  be  recommitted,  said  Committee  to  make  Report  again 
at  the  Adjournment 

The  Committee  to  consider  the  Memorial  of  the  Assessors, 
relative  to  Deliuquint  Classes  Reported  verbally — That  in  their 
Judgement  it  would  not  be  expedient  for  the  Town  to  take  any 
measures  respecting  this  Matter 

The  Question  was  put.  Whether  the  foregoing  Report  be  agree- 
able to  the  Town  —  passed  in  the  affermative. 

A  Letter  from  John  Bradford  Esqr.  relative  to  the  Men  he  had 
procured  for  the  Continental  Army,  and  praying  relief  of  the 
Town,  from  part  of  the  burden  he  has  born  in  consequence  of  his 
Iill  [sic"]  State  of  Health  — -  was  read  —  whereupon 

[34.]     Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consider  said 
Letter,  and  Report  what  they  apprehend  proper  to  be  done  thereon 
Voted,  that  CoK  Davis  [Daws?] 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
be  a  Committee  for  that  purpose 

on  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  prepare  and 
present  a  Complimentary  Address  to  the  Honble:  Major  General 
the  Marquis  De  la  Fayette  — in  the  Name  of  the  Town 

Voted,  that  the  Honble :  Samuel  Adams  EsqVMod1'. 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esq1'. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon,  to  meet  at 
Representatives  Chamber 

Fryday  the  14th  Day  of  December  8  O'Clock.  P.M.-  met  Accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  prepare  and  present  an  Address  to 
the  Honble:  Major  General  the  Marquis  de  la  Fayette  to  express 
the  most  cordial  esteem  and  affection  of  the  Inhabitants  for  the 
Marquis  —  Reported  that  they  had  presented  to  him  the  following- 
Address  Viz'. 

To  the  Honourable  Major  General  the  Marquis  de  la  Fayette 

[35.]     Sir 

We  have  the  honor  of  waiting  upon  you  in  the  Name  &  by  the 


218  City   Document   No.  80. 

Directions  of  the  Inhabitants  of  Boston  in  Town  Meeting  Assem- 
bled in  Faneiul  Hall  to  express  their  Sentiments  of  Joy  on  your 
safe  return  to  this  Metropolis 

We  Assure  you  from  them,  that  they  Still  bear  in  their  Minds  a 
great-full  Remembrance  of  the  early  disinterested  and  decided  Part 
you  took  with  Americans  while  they  were  resisting  alone,  the  Hand 
of  British  Tyrany 

Your  Sacrifice  of  domestick  Enjoyment  to  the  Cause  of  God  & 
Humanity  —  Your  generous  Exertions  in  a  foreign  Country,  in 
Support  of  that  Cause  ;  &  the  Success  which  has  crowned  those 
exertions,  so  dangerous  to  your  own  Person,  have  in  the  Opinion 
of  the  Town,  added  a  Lustur  to  your  exalted  Rank,  and  give  you  a 
Name  and  a  Place  in  the  first  Lists  of  American  Patriots  &  Heroes 

It  is  with  Regret  that  they  have  been  made  acquainted  that 
your  Present  Viset  must  be  short :  But  though  your  Residence  in 
the  Town,  would  have  afforded  them  an  unspeakable  Satisfaction, 
they  will  acquiesce  in  your  Departure,  from  the  Regard  that  they 
owe  to  their  Country ;  being  fully  persuaded  that  your  presence 
in  Europe  at  a  critical  Conjecture,  will  give  you  the  Oppertunity 
of  rendering  most  substantial  Service  to  the  joint  interest  of 
France  &  the  United  States 

[36.]  The  Inhabitants  most  fervently  pray  the  Almighty  God 
to  take  you  under  His  Protection  —  to  guard  you  from  Danger  in 
your  Voyage,  and  to  give  you  an  happy  Meeting  with  your  Family, 
your  private  Conections  and  your  Native  Country :  Assuring 
themselves  that  you  will  there  be  embraced  with  every  Sentiment 
of  Gratitude  and  Affection,  and  receive  the  approbation  of  the 
King  your  Sovereign  —  Boston  December  14th  1781 

To  which  the  Marquis  returned  the  following  Answer 

Gentlemen 

The  past  Obligations  I  have  been  under  to  the  In- 
habitants of  this  Capital,  and  the  New  Favour  they  now  confer 
upon  me,  have  impressed  my  Heart  with  the  most  lively  Sense  of 
Attachment  and  Gratitude. 

To  have  been  Admitted  among  you  from  an  early  Period,  in  the 
Defence  of  the  Cause  of  Liberty  will  forever  be  the  happiest  Cir- 
cumstance in  my  Life.  But  it  becomes  more  particularly  so,  when 
it  is  so  kindly  remembered  by  those  who  first  began  the  Noble 
Contest,  and  who  have  ever  since  been  so  conspicuous  in  its 
Support 

Nothing  could  induce  me  to  leave  this  Continent  even  for  a  short 
Period,  before  I  had  the  Satisfaction  to  see  my  Friends  in  this 
Town  —  Be  pleased  Gentelmen  to  Accept  my  most  respectfull 
Acknowledgements  to  your  [37.]  good  Wishes.  The  Height  of 
my  Ambition  would  be,  and  particularly  to  gratify  those  Affection- 
ate Sentiments  which  forever  devote  me  to  this  Metropolis. 

La  Fayette 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  be  directed  to  pub- 
lish the  aforegoing  Address  &  Reply  in  the  several  News  Papers 

The  Committee  to  prepare  a  Circular  Letter  Reported  a  draught 
of  one,  which  was  considered  paragraph  by  paragraph,  and  the 
Question    was    then    put   Viz,  —  Whether   this    Letter    shall    be 


Boston   Town   Eecords,    1761.  219 

adopted  by  the  Town  as  a  Circular  Letter  to  the  Maritime  Towns 
in  this  Commonwealth  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  procure  printed  Copies 
of  said  Letters,  &  forward  the  same  to  the  Maritime  Towns, 
Agreeable  to  a  former  Vote. 

The  following  is  the.  Circular  Letter  Reported  by  the  Committee 
—  Viz'. 

Gentlemen 

The  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston,  legally  As- 
sembled, have  taken  into  consideration  a  matter  which  they  con- 
ceive all  the  other  Maritime  Towns,  in  this  &  the  Neighbouring 
States  are  equalley,  and  some  of  them  more  nearly  interested  then 
thay.  It  is  the  Subject  of  the  [38.]  Fishery,  and  the  great  im- 
portance of  a  Common  right  therein  being  secured  to  the  United 
States,  whenever  a  Treaty  of  Peace  shall  be  concluded.  To  flatter 
ourselves  with  so  happy  a  Prospect,  so  far  as  to  neglect  the  neces- 
sary preperations  for  another  vigorous  campaign,  would  indeed  be 
unbecoming  the  Wisdom  of  Americans  ;  &  yet  so  important  has 
been  the  Success  of  the  Allied  Arms,  the  last'  year,  that  it  would 
Seem  to  be  madness  in  extreem  for  Britain  any  longer  to  persist  in 
her  unrighteous  claims.    But  Wisdom  has  forsakin  her  Counsels 

We  ought  to  presume,  that  the  Supreme  Representatives  of  these 
States  will  have  an  equal  regard  in  so  momentous  a  Crisis  to  the 
rights  of  each  individual.  We  would  not  Suggest  the  contrary. 
But  may  it  not  be  supposed,  that  Persons  whose  situation  is 
remote  from  the  Fisher}7,  &  who  derive  Advantages  from  it  in  its 
more  distant  effects  and  not  directly  perceivable,  are  probably  not 
so  attentive  to  its  unspeakable  importance,  as  others  who  are  im- 
mediately concerned,  &  depend  upon  it  as  the  only  Source  of  their 
Commerce  and  even  their  Subsistence,  If  this  Should  be  the  fact, 
would  not  States  so  immediately  interested  in  the  Fishery  as  ours, 
be  justly  criminated  by  the  Others,  if  we  should  neglect  Seasonably 
to  lay  before  them  our  own  sense  of  the  necessaty  of  an  express 
Article  in  a  Treaty  of  Peace  for  its  security  ;  Should  we  not  be 
wanting  to  ourselves  [39.]  in  a  most  essential  Point,  and  be 
chargeable  by  all  Posterity,  with  the  Sacrifising  our  &  their  in- 
valuable Rights,  by  unpardonable  carelessness  ;  Such  is  the  Senti- 
ment of  this  Town.  And  though  we  would  be  far  from  obtruding 
this  or  any  Sentiment  of  Ours  upon  Others,  we  cannot  but  think 
Ourselves  justifiable  in  candidly  recommending  it  to  their  Serious 
deliberation 

This  Town  have  judged  it  necessary  to  instruct  their  Represen- 
tatives in  the  General  Court  on  the  Subject,  the  Instructions  are 
inclosed.  Many  other  &  cogent  reasons  might  have  been  urged, 
and  will  undoubtedly  be  made  use  of  b}-  you,  if  you  Should  think 
it  proper  to  take  the  matter  into  your  Consideration.  Should  we  be 
so  fortunate  as  to  have  your  full  concurrance  in  Opinion  with  us, 
we  assure  ourselves  that  we  shall  be  equally  fortunate  in  the  Aid 
we  shall  receive  from  your  concurrent  exertions.  — 

In  the  Name  and  by  Order  of  the  Town  of  Boston  in  Meeting 
legally  Assembled  December  the  14th.  1781 

William  Cooper  Town  Clerk 


220  City  Document  No.  80. 

A  Letter  from  Mr.  Hunt  Master  of  the  South  Gramruer  School, 
relative  to  the  pay  he  had  received  as  Schoolmaster  was  read, 
whereupon 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  Appointed  to  take  this  Letter  into 
consideration  [40.]  Also  the  similar  circumstances  of  the  Other 
School  Masters,  and  to  Report  thereon  at  the  Adjournment 
Voted,  that  Ebenezer  Hancock  Esq1'. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
John  Lucas 
be  a  Committee  for  that  purpose 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  an  Additional  Instruction  be  given  the 
Above  named  Committee  ;  to  take  into  consideration  the  similar 
Circumstances  of  other  Servants  of  the  Town  who  have  Salaries 
Assigned  them 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  take  into 
consideration  the  present  arangement  of  the  publick  Schools  in 
the  Town;  and  to  Report  what  further  improvements  —  may  be 
made  thereon,  as  soon  as  may  be  —  also. 

Voted,  that  the  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Robert  T.  Payne  Esq1'. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Petition  of  the  Assessors,  "  that  the  Town  would  Vote 
them  such  pay,  for  their  services  as  may  appear  fitt  —  was  read  — 
whereupon 

Voted,  that  Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
John  Lucas  Esq1". 
be  a  Committee  to  take  this  Petition  into  consideration  [41.]  and 
Report  thereon  as  soon  as  may  be 

The  Committee  relative  to  North  Battery,  Reported,  the 
Appraisement  that  had  been  made  of  said  Estate  in  August  last 
pursuant  to  the  order  of  the  Town,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  and  hereby  are  directed  &  im- 
powered  to  proceed  in  disposing  of  the  Estate  called  North  Bat- 
tery, for  such  a  Sum  as  may  appear  to  them  to  be  for  the  interest 
of  the  Town,  and  if  Money  is  not  to  be  obtained,  then  upon  a  Credit 
not  exceeding  twelve  months  with  good  security  and  Interest,  and 
the  said  Selectmen  are  im powered  to  give  a  Deed  of  Bargain  & 
Sale  to  the  Purchaser  or  Purchasers  in  the  Name  of  the  Town. 
Moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consult  with 
Mr.  Hodgden  the  Commissary  of  Military  Stores  as  to  the  best 
place  to  remove  the  Powder  Ship  to,  and  to  request  his  doing  it  as 
soon  as  may  be  —  also 

Voted,  that  John  Brown  Esqr. 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Hon1'1'':  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Whitwell 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 


Boston   Town  Records,    1781.  221 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*. 

"  To  consider  what  steps  Shall  be  taken  to  prevent  damage  to 
the  Common  by  the  passing  of  Carriages  "  —  was  read  whereupon 

[42.]  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  make  the 
usual  Repairs  as  Soon  as  may  be 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what  Repairs 
shall  be  given  those  Streets,  where  the  Pavements  are  much  dam- 
aged"— •  was  read — whereupon — Voted,  that  a  Committee  be 
appointed  to  take  these  Articles  into  consideration,  and  to  Report 
at  March  Meeting  and  that  this  Committee  be  desired  and  im- 
powered  to  make  Application  to  the  General  Court,  for  their  help 
&  Assistance  in  giving  necessary  Repairs  to  said  Streets  —  also 
Voted,  that  John  Lowell  Esqr. 
Col0.  Daws 

Robert  Treat  Payne  Esq1'. 
Col°.  Hitchbourne  Esq1'. 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what  further 
Steps  shall  be  taken  relative  to  the  Town  Watch,  was  read  — 
whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  answer  the  Se- 
lectmens  Draughts  for  Such  an  amount  of  the  Bills  of  the  New 
Emission  Money,  as  may  be  sufficient  for  the  Support  of  the 
Watch,  and  that  the  Money  thus  draughted,  be  appropriated  for 
that  purpose. 

[43.]  On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  be 
Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  Monday  the  24th  Instant  3.  O. Clock 
P:  M:    to  meet  in  this  Place 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


Monday  December  24th.  3.  O. 'Clock  Afternoon  —  Met  according 
to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Adams  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  the  request  of  the  School- 
masters, Assessors  and  other  Servants  of  the  Town  at  their 
Meeting  the   14th  December  1781 

Report,  That  the  Treasurer  settle  with  the  Assessors,  School- 
masters, and  also  with  the  Other  Servants  of  the  Town  who  have 
Salaries  Assigned  them  by  the  Town,  giving  them  credit  for  the 
Specie  value  of  their  several  payments  made  them  according  to  the 
Scale  of  Depreciation,  and  Report  their  several  Balances  to  the 
Town  as  Soon  as  may  be 

Ebenezer  Hancock  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  ;  on  a 
Motion  made 

Voted,  that  the  Report  of  the  Committee  be  reconsidered,  and 
that  the  Committee  be  instructed  to  enquire  and  Ascertain  what 
losses  the  Schoolmasters  may  have  sustained  by  the  depreciation 
of  the  Paper  Money  [44.]  comparing  the  Salaries  received  from 


222  City  Document  No.  80. 

year  to  year,  with  the  Grants  made  them  in  1774  —  the  Committee 
to  have  no  respect  to  any  Sums  granted  to  the  Schoolmasters  on 
Account  of  the  high  prices  of  the  Necessaries  of  Life. 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that 

Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
be  added  to  the  Committee  relative  to  School-Masters. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  take  into  consideration  the  Repre- 
sentation of  John  Bradford  Esqr.,  Report  as  follows 

Whereas  it  appears  that  John  Bradford  Esqr.  was  included  in 
Six  Classes  for  furnishing  Six  Men  for  the  Continental  Army,  for 
three  years,  or  during  the  War,  and  by  his  Iill  State  of  health  was 
necessarily  prevented  from  attending  so  closely  to  the  buissness  as 
otherwise  he  would  in  consequence  of  which  he  was  a  Second  Time 
Classed  in  nine  Classes,  and  thereby  has  received  great  loss  and 
damage,  however  he  has  now  perfected  the  Business,  and  the  Nine 
Men  are  procured  by  him  and  gone  forward.  Therefore  in  order 
to  releive  Mr.  Bradford  from  part  of  the  burden  he  has  been  in 
consequence  of  his  Iill  State  of  health  aforesaid,  and  as  he  has 
fully  complied  with  the  Requisition,  it  is  unanimously  the  Opinion 
of  the  Committee  that  John  Bradford  Esqr.  [45.]  have  a  Grant 
made  him  upon  the  Town  Treasurey  for  the  Sum  of  Sixty  Pounds 
Specie 

Thomas  Daws  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered.  —  the 
Question  was  put  Viz'.  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  negative 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  draw  on  the  Town  Treas- 
urer for  the  Services  of  the  Assessors  in  1781  —  at  nine  Shillings, 
p  Day,  for  every  Day  they  shall  attend 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  consider 
of  proper  and  suitable  Allowances  to  the  Publick  Schoolmasters 
for  Six  Months,  commencing  from  the  first  of  September  last 
Voted,  that  Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  P2sqr. 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Sweetser 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid. 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Vote  which  passed  at  a  late  Town 
Meeting  respecting  the  pay  of  the  Town  Watch  be  reconsidered, 
and  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  Authorized 
and  directed  to  make  Sale  of  so  much  of  the  Bills  of  the  New 
Emission  Money,  now  in  his  hands,  or  that  may  hereafter 
come  into  his  hands  as  in  the  Judgement  of  the  Selectmen  shall 
tic  Sufficient  for  the  payment  of  the  Town  Watch 

[46.]  Adjourned  to  Monday  fortnight  being  the  7th  of  Janu- 
ary next  .">.  O. 'Clock  Afternoon,  then  to  meet  at  this  Place 

Monday  the  7th.  Day  of  January  1782.  3.  O'Cloek  Afternoon, 
met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  relative  to  the  publick  Schoolmasters  Reported 


Boston   Town   Records,    1782.  223 

in  writing  the  Statings  of  what  Mr.  Hunt  one  of  the  Schoolmasters, 
had  received  in  Monies,  or  should  receive  in  order  to  take  the 
Opinion  of  the  Town  —  the  same  having  been  read,  and  debate 
had  thereon,  it  was — Voted,  that  the  aforementioned  Committee 
Credet  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  the  Master  of  the  South  Grammer  School 
the  Sum  of  Seven  hundred  and  thirty-five  Pounds,  being  from 
June  1776  to  September  1781 — and  the  Several  Writing  Masters 
in  that  proportion  —  also 

Voted,  that  said  Committee  make  the  Schoolmasters  chargable 
with  the  Specie  value  of  the  several  Draughts  made  them  bj'  the 
Selectmen,  agreable  to  the  Votes  of  the  Town,  at  the  time  they 
received  payment  for  the  Same,  and  that  the  Committee  aforesaid 
Liquidate  Accounts  and  Report  again  to  the  Town 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town 
to  liquidate  Accounts  in  the  Town  Treasurer's  Books  have  regard 
to  the  [47.]  Scale  of  Depreciation  affixed  by  the  General  Court 
of  this  Commonwealth 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  of  proper  allowances  for 
the  Schoolmaster's  for  Six  Months  commencing  from  the  first  of 
September  last  Reported,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  sum  of  One  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  South 
Grammer  School  for  Six  Months 

Voted,  that  the  sum  of  One  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Nathan  Davis,  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  North 
Grammer  School  for  Six  Months,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quar- 
terly as  it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of 
September  last 

Voted,  that  the  sum  of  Ninety  pounds  be  allowed  and  paid  unto 
Mr.  James  Carter,  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  Writing  School 
in  Queen  Street  for  Six  Months,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  quar- 
terly as  it  shall  become  due  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of 
September  last 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ninety  Pounds,  be  allowed  and  paid 
unto  Mr.  James  [sic']  Tileston  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  North 
Writing  School  for  six  Months  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly 
as  it  shall  become  due  [48.]  and  to  commence  from  the  first 
of  September  last 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ninety  Pounds  be  allowed  and  paid 
unto  Mr.  John  Vinal,  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  Writing 
School  in  the  Common  for  Six  Months  the  same  to  be  paid  him 
Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from  the  first 
of  September  last 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Fifty  Pounds  be  allowed  and  paid  unto 
Mr.  William  Croswell  for  his  Sallary  as  Usher  of  the  South  Gram- 
mar School  for  Six  Months,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as 
it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of  September 
last 

Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Tileston  Master  of  the  North  Writing- 
School  be  allowed  for  House  Rent  at  the  Rate  of  Forty  Pounds  p 
Annum,  the  same  to  commence  the  first  of  September  last 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Nathan  Davis  Master  of  the  North   Grammer 


224  City  Document  No.  80. 

School  be  allowed  for  House  Rent  at  the  rate  of  Forty  Pounds  p 
Annum  the  same  to  commence  from  the  first  of  September  last 

Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Vinal  Master  of  the  Writing  School  in  the 
Common  be  allowed  for  House  Rent  at  the  Rate  of  Fort}'  [49.] 
Pounds  p  Annum  the  same  to  commence  from  the  first  of  Septem- 
ber last 

Moved,  that  a  Committee  be  now  Appointed  to  raise  by  Sub- 
scription three  hundred  Dollars,  for  the  purpose  of  procuring  two 
Men  for  three  years  or  during  the  War,  to  compleat  this  Towns 
Quota  of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army,  the  same  to  be  paid  into 
the  hands  of  Colonel  Procter  for  said  purpose,  and  that  the  Town 
Treasurer  give  his  Notes  for  the  Sums  borrowed,  payable  out  of 
the  present  Tax. 

The  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Afferma- 
tive 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Melville 

Mr.  Thomas  Whalley 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
"be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  several  Notes  given  by  the  Town 
Treasurer  to  the  Assessors  for  services  by  them  rendered  the 
Town  in  Seventeen  hundred  and  Eighty,  shall  carry  lawfull 
Interest  from  the  date  of  the  Selectmens  Draughts 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  Things  which  shall 
remaine  unfinished  at  this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  next 
General  Town  Meeting 

Voted,  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given  to 
the  Honble :  Samuel  Adams  Esq1'.  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


[50.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholder's  and  other  Inhabitants 
of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  &  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneiul  Hall  on  Monday  the  5th. 
Day  of  March  Anno  Domini    1781  [1782] 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 
John  Brown  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  the  6th.  of  March  last 
to  apply  to  a  proper  Gentleman  to  deliver  an  Oration  the  5th.  of 
March  Instant  to  perpetuate  the  Memory  of  the  horred  Massacre 
perpetrated  on  the  Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770,  by  a  Party 
of  Soldiers  under  the  Command  of  Cap1.  Thomas  Preston  of  the 
29th.  Regiment 

Reported  —  That  having  met  several  Times  for  the  purpose 
mentioned  in  the  Town  Vote,  they  have  unanimously  made  Choice 
of  Mr.  George  Richards  Minot  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th  of 
March  Ins1,  who  had  accordingly  Accepted  of  that  service 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  made  the  Question  was  put 
Viz1.  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Afferm- 
ative 


Boston  Town   Eecokds,  1782.  225 

[51.]  Upon  the  Motion,  the  Town  took  into  consideration, 
what  would  be  the  best  time  to  have  the  Oration  pronounced,  as 
also  what  place  would  be  most  suitable  for  the  purpose  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  the  Oration  be  delivered,  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting 
House  the  Hall  not  being  capacious  enough  to  receive  the  Inhabi- 
tants, that  Attend  upon  the  Occasion 

Voted,  that  Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Barber  Esqr. 
John  Brown  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Mr.    George   Richards  Minot,  and 
acquaint  him,  that  it  is  the  desire  of  the  Town,  that  the  Oration 
may  be  delivered  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  at  half  past  12. 
O'Clock  this  Day  as  also  to  ask  leave  of  the  Committee  of  said 
Church  for  the  use  of  that  Building 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to 
order  the  severall  Bells  in  the  Town  to  be  tolled  from  one 
quarter  of  an  Hour  After  nine  O'Clock  this  Evening  untill  10: 
O  Clock 

Adjourned  to  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House,  half  past  12. 
O'Clock 

The  Town  met  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  half  past  12. 
O'Clock  according  to  Adjournment 

[52.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  wait  upon  Mr.  George 
Richard  Minot,  to  acquaint  him  with  the  Vote,  of  the  Town,  re- 
specting the  time  and  place  for  the  delivery  of  an  Oration  — 
Reported 

That  said  Gentleman  was  ready  to  comply  with  the  Order  of 
the  Town 

An  Oration  to  commemorate  the  horred  Massacre  of  the  5th.  of 
March  1770  — and  to  impress  upon  the  Minds  of  the  Citizens,  the 
ruineous  tendency  of  standing  Armies  being  placed  in  Free  and 
Populous  Cities  &c  was  delivered  by  Mr.  George  Richards  Minot 
to  a  large  and  crowded  Assembly  and  received  by  them  with  great 
Applause 

On  a  Motion  made,  Voted,  that 

John  Brown  Esqr.  Moderator 

Nathan  Frazier  Esqr. 

William  Cooper  Esqr. 

John  Lucas  Esq1'. 

Josiah  Waters  Junr.  Esq1'. 

John  Scollay  Esqr. 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
be  and  hereby  are  Appointed  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Mr. 
George  Richards  Minot  and  in  the  Name  of  the  Town  to  Thank 
him  for  the  spirited  and  elegant  Oration  delivered  by  him  at 
their  request,  in  commemoration  of  the  horred  Massacre  perpe- 
trated on  the  Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770  by  a  Party  of 
Soldiers  of  the  29th.  Regiment  under  [53.]  the  Command  of 
Cap'.  Thomas  Preston,  and  to  request  of  him  a  Copy  thereof  for 
the  Press 


22b'  City  Document  No.  80. 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that 

John  Brown  Esq'.  —  Moderator 

Mr.  George  Richards  Minot 

Cap1.  Elias  Parkman 

Thornas  Daws  Esqr. 

Cap1.  William  Mackay 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Apply  to  a  proper 
Gentleman  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th.  of  March  next,  to 
perpetuate  the  Memory  of  the  horred  Massacre,  perpetrated  on 
the  Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770  by  a  Party  of  Soldiers  of 
the  29th  Regiment  under  the  Command  of  Cap4.  Thomas  Preston  ; 
and  to  impress  upon  our  Minds  the  ruineous  tendency  of  Standing 
Armies  being  placed  in  free  &  Populous  Cities  in  a  time  of  peace  ; 
and  the  necessity  of  such  noble  exertions  in  all  future  times,  as 
the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  then  made,  whereby  the  designs  of 
the  Conspierators  Against  the  publick  Peace,  may  be  still 
frustrated 

a  Petition  of  Mr.  Robert  Patterson  setting  forth,  "  that  he  re- 
ceived a  wound  in  his  Right  Arm  on  the  5th.  of  March  1770.  bj^  a 
Shot  from  Prestons  Party,  whereby  he  has  entirely  lost  the  use  of 
it ;  and  that  since  the  death  of  Mr.  Monk  he  is  the  only  one  of  the 
unhappy  number  then  badly  wounded,  that  survive,"  and  therefore 
praying  the  Charity  of  the  Town —  was  read,  whereupon 

[54.]  Voted,  that  a  Collection  be  made  at  the  close  of  this 
Meeting,  for  the  said  unhappy  Sufferer,  and  Boxes  were  placed  at 
each  Door  to  receive  the  Collections 

The  Collection  made  for  the  said  Mr.  Patterson,  amounted  to 
the  Sum  of 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneiul  Hall  on  Monday  the  11th.  Day  of 
March  Anno  Domini  1782. 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Dr.  Cooper 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read, 

Sundry  Laws  enjoined  to  be  read  at  this  Meeting,  were  accord- 
ingly, read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

[55.]     TheHon''1''.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator 

William  Cooper  was  chosen  Town  Clerk  for  the  Year  ensuing, 
and  took  the  Oath  of  Office  for  the  faithfull  discharge  of  his  Duty 
which  Oath  was  Administred  by  Mr.  Justice  Price 

The  Town  having  determined  by  a  Vote  to  choose  seven  Select- 
men, the  Inhabitants  were  then  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes  for  that  number,,  and  the  same  being  brought   in   and 
sorted,  it  appeared  that  the  following  Gentlemen  — Viz1. 
John  Scollay  Esq1. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  227 

Cap'.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Harbottle  Dorr  Esq1'. 
Nathan  Frazier  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Cap*.  William  Mackay 
were  chose  Selectmen  for  the  year  ensuing  unanimously 

The  Inhabitants  as  directed  by  the  Moderator,  brought  in  their 
Votes  for  twelve  Overseers  of  the  Poor  and  upon  sorting  them  it 
appeared,  that 

The  Honble.  William  Phillips  Esq1. 
Isaac  Smith  Esq1'. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Cap'.  Samuel  Partridge 
M1'.  Samuel  Whitwell 
Mr.  John  White 
[56.]  Edward  Proctor  Esq1'. 

William  Powell  Esq1'. 
John  Sweetser  Esq1". 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
Joseph  Webb  Esq1. 
were  chose  Overseers  of  the  Poor  for  the  Year  ensuing 

David  Jeffries  Esqr.  Town  Treasurer  having  sent  into  the  Town 
in  W»riting  his  resignation  of  said  Office  —  The  Inhabitants  were 
directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Town  Treas- 
urer, and  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared, 
that 

M1.  Peter  Boyer 
was  chosen  Town  Treasurer  for  the  ensuing  Year 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby 
are  given  unto  David  Jeffries  Esq1',  for  his  good  and  faithfull  ser- 
vices as  Treasurer  of  this  Town  for  Thirty  One  Years  suc- 
cessively 

The  Inhabitants  brought  in  their  Votes,  for  a  County  Treasurer, 
and  the  Same  being  Sealed  up  in  Town  Meeting,  were  delivered  to 
Constable  Smith,  to  be  by  him  returned  to  the  Court  of  General 
Sessions  of  the  Peace  at  their  next  Meeting 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Inhabitants  [57.]  prepare  a  List  of 
Substantial  Men  for  Constables  to  be  brought  in  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting  in  the  Afternoon 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  in  consideration  of  the  inclemency  of  the 
Weather  this  Meeting  when  Adjourned,  shall  be  to  the  Represen- 
tatives Chamber 

Adjourned  to  three  O'Clock  Afternoon  to  meet  at  the  Repre- 
sentatives Chamber 

3.  O'Clock  P:  M:  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

On    a    Motion    made  the   Question    was    put    Viz' :  Whether 

Collectors  of  Taxes  shall  be  chose   sepperate  from  Constables  — 

Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and   bring  in  their 

Votes  for  a  Committee  of   Correspondence  Inspection  and  Safety 


228  City  Document  No.  80. 

—  A.nd    the    same  being  brought   in    and    Sorted,    it    appeared, 
that, 

Nathaniel  Barber  Esqr. 
Edward  Proctor  Esq1. 
Cap1.  John  Pulling 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Cap4.  Isaac  Phillips 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
Thomas  Melvill  Esqr. 
Jonathan  Mason  Jun1'.  Esqr. 
Edward  Greene  Esqr. 
[58.]  were  chose  a  Committee  of   Correspondence   &c  for  the 
Year  ensuing 

The  Town  brought  in  their  Votes  for  Sixteen  Fire  Wards,  and 
the  same  having  been  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 
John  Scollay  Esqr. 
William  Cooper  Esq1'. 
Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 
Edward  Proctor  Esq1'. 
Cap1.  John  Pulling 
Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Tileston 
Andrew  Syms  Esqr. 
Cap1.  Gustavus  Fellows 
Joseph  Webb  Esqr. 
Cap4.  John  Ballard 
Mr.  John  Winthrop 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Major  Thomas  Melvill  Esqr. 
Jabez  Hatch  Esqr. 
were  chosen  Fire  Wards  for  the  ensuing  Year 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4.  "  To  consider  the  Request  of 
a  great  Number  of  the  Inhabitants  that  they  have  the  Use  of  Fan- 
euiel  Hall  to  be  entertained  with  Mr.  Templemans  Exhibitions" 
was  read,  and  after  longe  debate,  the  Question  was  put.  Viz4. 
Whether  it  be  the  Mind  of  the  Town  that  agreeable  to  the  request 
aforesaid  Mr.  Templeman  may  have  the  use  of  Faneuil  Hall  for 
his  Exhibitions — [59.]  a  doubt  arising  with  respect  to  the 
Number  of  hands  in  faviour  of  the  request  and  against  it;  a 
Motion  was  made  that  the  Petitioners  have  leave  to  withdraw 
their  Petition,  which  passed  in  the  Affermative 

A  Motion  for  the  choice  of  Collectors  at  this  time  did  not  obtain 
The  following  Persons  were  chose  Clerks  of  the  Market  for  the 
Year  ensuing  Viz4: 

Messr8:   Narborah  Frazier 
Joseph  Head 
Nathaniel  Jarvis 
Daniel  Biggelow 
Samuel  Conant  Junr: 
Thomas  Carter 
Benjamin  Colman 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  229 

Joseph  Foster 
Samuel  Amory 
Joseph  Whiting 
John  Welch  Junr. 
Moved  &  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned,  it  be  to 
to  Morrow  Morning  10.  O'Clock 

Moved  and  carried,  that  to  Morrow  11.  O   Clock  be  assigned 
for  the  choice  of  Assessors 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  choice  of  Constables  be  Assigned  over 
to  to  Morrow  10.  O  Clock  Forenoon 

[60.]  Major  Edward  Carnes 

Mr.  William  McNeil 
were  chose  Surveyors  of  Hemp  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs:  Benjamin  Page 
John  Stimpson 
Joseph  Ayres 
Jonathan  Stodder 
Edmund  Ranger 
William  Moor 
Abraham  Howard 
Clement  Collins  Junr. 
Samuel  Fenno 
William  Todd 
Uriah  Norcross 
James  Rogers 
Daniel  Brown 
Joseph  Butler 
John  Stutson 
Joseph  Ballard 
Abijah  Crane 
John  Dyer 
John  Bell 
John  Arnold 
Benjamin  White 
Joseph  Pay  son 
Thomas  Uran 
John  Presson 
John  Bulfinch 
were  chose  Surveyors  of  Boards  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs:    Samuel  Todd 

William  Clough 
[61.]  Jonathan  Stodder 

Joseph  Daniels 
Israel  Loring 
were  chose  Fence  Viewers  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs:    Isaac  Bird 

Joseph  Hayden 
John  Fenno  Junr : 
Samuel  Bangs 
Nathan  Green 
were  chose  Sealers  of  Leather  for  the  Year  ensuing 


230  City  Document  No.  80. 

M1'.  Adam  Colsori 
was  chosen  Informer  of  Deer  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs:   Robert  Hitchburne 

John  Owen 

John  McElroy 

Manassah  Masters 

Thomas  Barber 

Joshua  Pico 

Samuel  Hayley 

Cap1.  David  Spear 

Lemuel  Gardner 

John  Lambert 

Joseph  Loring 

Daniel  Bell 
were  chose  Cullers  of  Staves  for  the  ensuing  Year 
Messrs:  Jeremiah  Russel 

Henry  Plimpton 

Edward  Jones 

William  Sharp 
were  chose  Hogreeves  for  the  year  ensuing 
[62.]  Mess1'8:    George  Hamlin 

Samuel  Curtis 
were  chose  Haywards  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Ward 

Mess1'8.  Nathaniel  Baker  Junr.     -     -     -     -     No.  1 

Cap4.  John  Lambert  -------  2 

Joseph  Prince  -------  3 

John  Cogswell  -------  4 

Samuel  Sumner 5 

Jeremiah  Bumsted      -----  6 

Ephraim  Copeland 7 

John  Kennedy 8 

Zipheon  Thayer 9 

Joseph  Shed      -------  10 

George  Langley     ------  11 

Henry  Bass-     -------  12 

were  chose  Scavingers  for  the  following  or  ensuing  year 
Mess1'8:  John  Skinner 
Thomas  Green 
were  chosen  Assay  Masters  for  the  year  ensuing- 
Voted,  that  Major  Thomas  Melville  Esq'. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
HonbU':   Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Mr.  Hermon  Brimmer 
Josiah  Waters  Esq1 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  Audit  the  Accompts 
of  Mr.    Peter   Boyer  Treasurer,  and  also   the    Accompts  of   the 
Overseers  of  the  Poor;  and  the  said  Committee  are  impowered 
when  they  shall  Audit  said  Accompts,  to  allow  such  of  the  Over- 
seers, as  shall  have  [63.]   Advanced  Monies  for  the  Relief  of  the 
Poor  ;  Interest  on  all  such  Sums  from  the  time  so  advanced,  untill 
they  shall  have  Audited  said  Accompts  ;  and  they  are  also  desired 


Boston   To^vn   Records,  1782.  231 

to  Report  from  time  to  time  a  State  of  the  Treasurey,  respecting  its 
debts  and  credits  and  on  any  matters  that  they  may  think  proper 
and  the  Committee  are  also  directed  to  examine  the  Draughts  of 
the  Selectmen 

The  Selectmen 
were  chose  Surveyers  of  the  High  Ways  for  the  Year  ensuing 
Messrs :  John  White 

John  Sweetser  Esqr. 

John  Lucas  Esq1, 
were  chose  Purchasers  of  Grain  for  the  Year  ensuing,  and  they 
are  desired  and  impowered  to  give  all  needfull  directions  to  the 
Keeper  of  the  Granary,  respecting  the  quantities  of  Grain  to  be 
Sjld,  and  affixing  the  prices  thereof  from  time  to  time  as  oc- 
casion shall  require  ;  and  the  said  Committee  are  desired  &  directed 
to  cause  all  the  Grain  belonging  to  the  Town  to  be  ground  at  the 
New  Mills  near  the  Mill  Bridge 

John  Tudor  Esqr. 

William  Kettle 

Edward  Tuckerman 

Ebenezer  Tory 

Samuel  Brown 
were  chose  Surveyers  of  Wheat  &  Flour  for  the  year  ensuing 

[64.]  The  Petition  of  Mr.  Paul  Farmer  relative  to  his  Taxes 
was  read,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Nathanel  Appleton  Esqr. 

Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 

John  Lucas  Esqr.  — excused 

John  Preston 
be  a  Committee  to  take  the  Same  into  consideration,  and  Report 
at  the  Adjournment 

The  Petition  of  Cap4.  Amasa  Davis,  respecting  Monies  due  to 
him  from  the  Town,  was  read,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 

Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 

John  Preston 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  the  Petition  and  Report  at  the  Ad- 
journment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.    Viz'.    "  To  consider  what  steps 
shall  be  taken  for  settling  with  the  Board  of  War  their  demands 
on  the  Town  for  Small  Arms  &c  "  was  read  —  whereupon 
Voted,  that  Cap4.  Isaac  Phillips 

Major  Thomas  Melville  Esq1'. 

Mr.  Elisha  Sigorney 
be  a  Committee  to  make  enquirey  relative  to  Small  Arms  which  by 
a  Resolve  of  Court  passed  May  6.  1777  the  Board  of  War  were 
directed,  to  deliver  to  the  Selectmen,  who  were  made  accountable 
for  the  Same  ;  also  what  is  [65.]  become  of  the  Cartridges  deliv- 
ered the  Military  Officers  of  this  Town,  and  make  Report  as  soon 
as  may  be 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  former  Committee  to  purchase  Small 
Arms  be  called  upon ;  to  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meetino- 


232  City  Document  No.  80. 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  being  the  12th  Instant  10.  O'Clock 
in  the  Forenoon,  then  to  meet  at  the  Representatives  Chamber 

Tuesday  3  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon  met  at  the  Representatives 
Chamber 

On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  made  enquiry, 
whether  the  G-entlemen  chosen  Town  Treasurer  have  usually  given 
Bond  for  the  faithfull  discharge  of  their  Trust 
Voted,  that  Mr.  Samuel  Whitwell 
Harbottle  Dorr  Esqr. 
Cap'.  William  Mackay 
be  a  Committee  for  this  purpose  to  Report  as  Soon  as  may  be 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  there   be  one  more  added  to  the  Sur- 
veyers  of  Boards,  and  Things  — 

[66.]  Mr.  John  Ballard  Junr. 

was  chosen  a  Surveyer  of  Boards  for  the  Year  ensuing 

This  being  the  time  Assigned  for  the  choice  of  Constables,  the 
Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for 
twelve  Constables,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted,  it 
appeared,  that 

Mr.  Josiah  Simpson 
was  chosen 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and   bring  in  their 
Votes    for  eleven    Constables    for    the  Year   ensuing  —  and   the 
Votes  being  brought  in   and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that  only  four 
Constables  were  chosen  —  Viz'. 

Messrs:  Alexander  McLeod 
Samuel  Whitney 
Elisha  Byles 
-  Samuel  Smith 
The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  seven  Constables  ;   and   the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared,  that  only  one  was  chosen  Viz'. 
Mr.  John  Gray  —  excused 
The  Inhabitants  were  directed   to  withdraw  and   bring  in  their 
Votes  for  six  Constables  ;  and  the  same  being  brought  in  &  sorted, 
it  Appeared  that 

[67.]  Mess" :      James  Kirkwood      -----     excused 

Thomas  Grant    ------     excused 

John  Tuffts   -------     sworn 

John  Magner      ------     excused 

John  Dinsdell     ------     excused 

William  Patten  ------     sworn 

were  chose  Constables  for  the  Year  ensuing- 
Moved  &  Voted,  that  one  more  Person  be  chosen  into  the  Oflice 
of  Survey ers  of  Boards, 

Mr.  Henry  Blaisdel 
was   chosen  a  Surveyer  of  Boards,   and  Shingles,   for  the  Year 
ensuing 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Town  will  now  proceed  to  the  choice 
of  Seven  Assessors 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  233 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  Seven  Assessors,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  & 
Sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

Messrs.  William  Lowder 
Moses  May 
John  R.  Sigorney 
John  Pulling 
Barth0.  Kneeland 
William  Fleet 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
were  chose  Assessors  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Cap'.  Kirkwood  chosen  into  the  Office  of  a  Constable  for  the 
Year  ensuing,  attended  and  [68.]  informed  the  Town,  that 
being  bound  to  Sea,  he  desired  he  might  be  excused  from  serving 
in  that  Office,  and  he  was  accordingly  excused 

Voted,  that  the  Town  will  now  come  to  the  choice  of  a  Con- 
stable 

Moved  and  carried  that  the  foregoing  Vote  be  reconsidered 
Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  Appointed  to  take 
into  consideration  what  measures  it  will  be  pix>per  for  the  Town 
to  take  relative  to  the  outstanding  Taxes  in  the  new  Emission 
Money  ;  and  whether  it  will  be  necessary  to  raise  any  further  Sum 
for  defreying  the  Expences  of  the  present  year,  and  the  Sum  they 
Apprehend  should  be  raised  for  that  purpose 
Voted,  that  John  Brown  Esqr. 

Honble :  Caleb  Davis  Esq1'. 
Mr.  Joseph  Barrel 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  to  Report  as  soon  as 
may  be 

A  Motion  was  made  that  the  consideration  of  Salaries  and 
Grants  be  referred  over  to  May  Meeting  — and  the  Question  being 
put —  Passed  in  the  Negative 

It  was  then  moved  and  Voted,  that  Grants  be  now  made  the 
Several  School  Masters  for  their  Salaries,  for  Six  Months  [69.] 
commencing  from  the  1* :  of  March  Instant 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  for  his  salary  as  Master  of  the  South 
Grammer  School  for  Six  Months,  commencing  from  the  first  of 
March  Instant,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  be- 
come due 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Nathan  Davis  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  North 
Grammer  School  for  Six  Months  commencing  from  the  P.  March 
Ins' :  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due 
Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon 

3.  O'Clock  Afternoon  met  according  to  Adjournment 
Mr.  John  Green 
was  chosen  a  Clerk  of  the  Market  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Selectmen  Reported,  on  the  Visitation  of  the  Schools  the 
last  year,  and  were  Appointed  Visitors  for  the  Schools  the  present 
Year  — 


234  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  make  enquiry  whether  it  had  been 
usual  for  the  [70.]  Town  Treasurer  to  give  Bond,  for  the  faith- 
full  discharge  of  their  trust  in  that  Office 

Reported,  that  the  late  Treasurer  David  Jeffries  when  first 
chosen  into  that  Office,  give  Bond  to  the  Selectmen  in  1750  in  the 
penal  Sum  of  £10,000 whereupon 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Peter  Boyer  who  has  been  chosen  Treasurer  of 
this  Town  give  Bonds  with  Surities,  in  the  Sum  of  two  Thousand 
Pounds  for  the  faithfull  discharge  of  his  trust  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  said  Treasurer  be  Notified  of  the  choice  the 
Town  had  made  of  him  for  Treasurer,  and  desired  to  give  his 
Attendance  at  this  Meeting 

The  Treasurer  Attended  accordingly  and  was  informed  that  the 
Town  had  made  choice  of  him  as  their  Treasurer,  and  had  Voted, 
that  he  must  give  Bond  with  Sureties  in  the  Sum  of  two  Thousand 
Pounds,  for  his  fidelity  in  that  Office 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ninety  five  Pounds  be  allowed  and  paid 
unto  Mr.  James  Carter,  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  Writing 
School  in  Queen  Street  for  six  Months  the  same  to  be  paid  him 
Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due  and  to  commence  from  the  first 
of  March  Instant 

[71.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ninety  five  Pounds  be  allowed 
and  paid  untoMr.  James  [sic]  Tileston  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of 
the  North  Writing  School  for  Six  Months  the  same  to  be  paid 
him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from  the 
first  of  March  Ins* : 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ninety  Five  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  John  Vinal  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  Writing 
School  in  the  Common  for  six  Months  the  same  to  be  paid  him 
Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from  the  first 
of  March  Ins1 : 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Fifty  Pounds  be  allowed  and  paid  unto 
Mr.  William  Croswell  for  his  Salary  as  Usher  of  the  South  Gram- 
mer  School  for  Six  Months  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as 
it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of  March 
Instant 

Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Tileston  Master  of  the  North  Writing 
School,  be  allowed  for  six  Months  House  Rent  the  Sum  of 
Twenty  Pounds,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  be- 
come due,  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of  March  Instant 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Nathan  Davis  Master  of  the  North  Grammer 
be  allowed  &  paid  for  Six  Months  House  Rent  the  Sum  of  twenty 
Pounds,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due 
and  to  commence  from  the  first  of  March  Instant 

[72.]  Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Vinall  Master  of  the  Writing 
School  in  the  Common  be  allowed  and  paid  for  six  Months  House 
Rent  the  Sum  of  Twenty  Pounds  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quar- 
terly as  it  shall  become  due  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of 
March  Instant 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  one  or  more  Persons  be  Added  to  the 
Committee,  appointed  to  consider  whether  they  can  be  a  new 
arangement  of  the  Publick  Schools  for  the  Advantage  of  the  Town 


Boston   Town  Kecords,  1782.  235 

Voted  that  the  Honblc :  Oliver  Wendell  Esqr.  be  Added  to  said 
Committee 

Moved  that  the  Minds  of  the  Inhabitants  be  taken  whether  the 
Town  Treasurer  shall  be  paid  by  a  Commission  on  the  Money, 
passing  through  his  hands  —  and  the  Question  being  accordingly 
put — Passed  in  the  Negative  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Peter  Boyer  be  allowed  and  paid  the  Sum  of 
One  hundred  Pounds  for  Six  Months,  services  as  Treasurer  the 
same  to  be  paid  him  as  it  shall  become  due 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  is  proper  to  be  done 
with  respect  to  what  is  due  upon  the  Tax  which  was  to  be  paid  in 
the  New  Emission  Money  at  one  &  seven  eights,  Reported  as  their 
Opinion  —  that  no  new  Emission  Mone\'  be  received  into  the  [73.] 
Town  Treasury,  After  the  tenth  Day  of  April  next,  and  all  that 
may  then  be  due  shall  be  paid  in  Specie,  so  far  as  may  be  due  on 
Account  of  the  Town  Tax 

That  the  Sum  of  One  Thousand  Pounds  be  Assessed  on  the  In- 
habitants and  appropriated  for  the  Repairs  of  the  Streets,  as  the 
Streets  are  in  a  ruineous  Condition  and  daly  growing  worse  and 
the  Town  has  been  complained  of  and  are  liable  to  be  prosecuted 
by  the  Grand  Jury  for  this  omission 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put.  Viz1 — Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative  —  also 

Voted,  that  agreeable  to  the  Above  Report,  the  Sum  of  One 
Thousand  Pounds  in  Silver  &  Gold  be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon  the 
Polls  and  rateable  Estates  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town  ;  and 
that  the  same  be  paid  into  the  Town  Treasurey  and  appropriated 
for  the  Repairs  of  the  Streets  in  this  Town  now  in  a  ruinous  con- 
dition 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Consideration  of  what  Sum  of 
Money  may  be  necessary  to  be  Raised  for  the-Expences  of  the 
present  year  ensuing,  be  referred  over  to  the  Annual  Town  Meet- 
ting  in  May  Next 

[74.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what 
Measures  shall  be  adopted  for  the  immediate  procuring  the  Towns 
proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army,  Agreeable  to  a  late 
Resolve  of  the  General  Court  —  was  read  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  of  thirty  Six  Persons  be  now  appointed, 
three  of  whom  are  to  be  chosen  out  of  each  Ward,  who  are  to 
Assist  the  Assessors  in  carrying  the  Resolve  of  the  General  Court 
for  raising  this  Towns  proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental  Army 
into  execution 

Ward. 

Voted,  that  Cap1.  Thomas  Adams      -----     l 

Cap4.  William  Brown 

Mr.  William  Fowle 

Cap4.  Elias  Parkman     -------2 

Mr.  Benjamin  Burt 

Mr.  Alden  Bass 

Mr.  John  White  ---------     3 

Mr.  Josiah  Eliot 


23(3  City  Document  No.   80. 

Ward. 

Mr.  Grant  Webster 

Col0.  Nathaniel  Barber 4th. 

Col0.  Andrew  Syms 

Mr.  Samuel  Parkman 

Jonathan  Williams  Esqr. 5*. 

Cap*.  William  Mackey 

Cap4.  Josiah  Waters 

Mr.  Benjamin  Jepson  -     - 6th. 

Cap*.  Samuel  Barret 

Mr.  John  Lowell      excused 

Cap1.  William  Bell 
[75.]  Cap'.  Job  Prince  Senr. N°.  7. 

Mr.  Timothy  Newell 

Cap1.  Isaac  Phillips 

Cap*.  John  Simpkins     -----__     8 

Cap'.  John  Langdon 

Dr.  John  Loring 

Isaac  Sears  Esqr.     ---_____     9 

Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 

Mr.  John  Andrews 

Col°.  Joseph  Webb  -     - 10 

Mr.  John  Read 

Cap*.  Eleazer  Johnson 

Mr.  Joseph  Peirce 11 

Mr.  John  Tileston 

Col0.  Thomas  Dawes      excused 

Cap*.  Nehemiah  Soames 

Arnold  Wells  Esq1'. -  12 

Mr.  Ebenezer  Dorr 

Mr.  Henry  Bass 
were  appointed  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 
also  Voted,  that 

Col0.  Josiah  Waters  .-----     excused 

John  Lucas  Esqr. 

Major  Thomas  Melvill 

Cap*.  Alexander  Hodgen      ...     -     excused 

Cap*.  Sarson  Belcher  ------     excused 

Mr.  Edward  Green      ------     excused 

Col0.  Joseph  Webb     ------     declines 

Col°.  Edward  Procter 
be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  for  Opening  a  Rendez- 
vous   for   this   Towns    proportion    of    Men    for   the    Continental 
Army 

[76.]  All  but  Two  of  the  Above  Committee  have  declined 
serving  &  been  excused  it  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Committee 
be  now  chosen  to  apply  to  proper  Persons,  &  Report  a  List  suit- 
able for  filling  up  said  Committee 

Voted,  that  John  Lucas  Esqr. 
Col".  Waters 
Majr.  Melville 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 


Boston   Town   Keooeds,   1782.  237 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Committee  for  raising  Men  have  an 
adequate  &  generious  allowance 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  the  South  Writing  School 
having  been  again  read 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be   appointed  to   prepare  an  Estimate 
of  the  Charge  of  building  a  Suitable  School  House 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Daws 

Mr.  Samuel  Dyer 
Mr.  John  Preston 
be  a  Committee  for  said  purpose 

Voted,  that  the  Assessors  be  and  hereby  are  empowered  and 
directed  to  set  for  such  Abatements  of  Taxes  as  they  shall  Judge 
reasonable  ten  Days  next  following  the  date  and  delivery  of  the 
Tax  Bills  (Lords  Days  excepted)  &  no  longer  saving  that  they 
be  allowed  to  set  two  Days,  the  Last  Week  in  Febuary  for  the 
Abatements  of  the  Taxes  of  Such  Persons  as  had  not  an  Oppor- 
tunity of  applying  in  the  above  limitted  [77.]  time,  by  reason  of 
their  being  out  of  the  Commonwealth,  or  any  other  unavoidable 
hindrance,  at  which  time  they  are  also  allowed  &  impowered  to 
Abate  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons  as  may  have  died  Insolvent  be- 
fore the  said  time 

Moved  and  Voted  that  the  Committee  Appointed  to  bring  in  an 
Estimate  of  the  Charge  of  Building  a  new  School  house  be  de- 
sired to  consider  that  of  mending  the  Windows  in  Faneuil  Hall, 
and  placing  the Seats  where  they  formerly  Stood  and  to  Re- 
port at  the  Adjournment 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  be  Adjourn'd,  it  shall  be  to  Fry- 
day  next.  3.  O  Clock  in  the  Afternoon,  then  to  Meet  in  this  place 

Fryday  March  15th.  1782.  3.  O  Clock  Afternoon,  —  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes,  for  Twelve  Wardens,  but  before  the  Inhabitants  had 
brought  in  their  Votes  a  Motion  was  made  and  carried,  that  the 
choice  of  Wardens  be  deferred  till  the  Meeting  is  fuller 

Moved,  that  if  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  years  past  produce 
to  the  Selectmen  Certificates  from  the  several  Treasurers  that  they 
have  paid  all  the  Taxes,  into  the  Treasurey  which  had  been  com- 
mitted to  them  to  Collect  of  the  Inhabitants  except  the  two  last 
Taxes,  they  shall  be  eligable  to  a  New  choice 

And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Af- 
fermative 

[78.]  Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  foregoing  Vote  be  recon- 
sidered, and  that  no  Collector  have  any  new  Tax  Books  committed 
to  them,  unless  they  produce  Receipts  from  the  several  Treasurers, 
for  the  discharge  of  all  Taxes  (except  the  last)  and  Such  Sums 
as  in  the  Judgement  of  the  Selectmen  could  not  be  recovered  or 
received 

The  Committee  appointed  to  bring  in  an  Estimate  of  the  charge 
of  mending  the  Windows  in  Faneuil  Hall  &  placing  the  Seats  as 
they  formerly  stood 

Reported  as  their- Opinion  that  the  said  Hall  might  be  put  in  as 
good   Repair   as  it  was  formerly  for  the    Sum  of  Two  hundred 


238  City  Document  No.  80. 

pounds,  they  also  Laid  before  the  Town  an  Estimate  of  the  Charge 
of  the  Several  Articles  of  Repairs 

John  Rowe  Esqr.  having  in  this  Meeting  generously  offered  to 
the  Town  a  Box  of  Glass  for  the  Repairs  of  the  Publick  Buildings 

Voted,  unanimousley  that  this  Donation  be  accepted,  and  that  the 
thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given  him  for  the  Same 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  take  orders 
for  the  Repairs  of  Fanuiel  Hall,  and  putting  the  same  in  its  former 
State 

The  Committee  appointed  to  prepare  an  Estimate  of  the  Charge 
of  building  a  Suitable  School  House 

[79.]  Reported,  that  a  School  House  suitable  for  the  accom- 
modation of  the  Youth  of  the  South  part  of  the  Town,  may  be 
built  for  the  Sum  of  £300  —  as  also  a  Plan  of  such  a  Building, 
whereupon  it  was  moved,  that  the  Report  be  accepted,  and  that 
the  Sum  of  Three  hundred  pounds  be  appropriated  for  the  build- 
ing a  School  House  for  the  accommodation  of  the  Youth  of  the 
Southerly  part  of  the  Town  and  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to 
take  Order  thereon  —  and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Five  hundred  Pounds  in  Silver  &  Gold 
be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon  the  Polls  and  Rateable  Estates  of  the 
Inhabitants  of  this  Town,  &  that  the  same  be  paid  into  the  Town 
Treasurey,  and  appropriated  for  the  Repairs  of  Fanuiel  Hall ;  and 
the  Building  a  New  School-house 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  by  the  Moderator  to  withdraw 
and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  twelve  Wardens ;  but  before  the  In- 
habitants withdrew  a  Motion  was  made  —  that  the  Town  first 
determine  whether  they  Will  choose  Wardens  the  present  year  or 
not ;  &  the  Question  after  longe  Debate  being  accordingly  put  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Inhabitants  be  desired  to  come  pre- 
pared with  Votes  for  the  choice  of  Wardens  at  the  Adjournment 
of  this  Meeting  — 

[80.]  The  Committee  appointed  to  lay  before  the  Town  a 
List  of  suitable  Persons  to  be  Added  to  the  Committee  appointed 
to  hire  Men  for  the  Continental  Army  ;  for  the  approbation  of  the 
Town,  Reported  a  List  —  whereupon, 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Josiah  Waters  Jur.  Esqr. 
John  Lucas  Esqr: 
Cap':  Alexander  Hodgsdon 
be  added  to  the  two  Gentelmen  before  chosen  on  said  Committee 

Col0.  Waters  having  represented  to  the  Town  that  the  Commit- 
tee for  raising  Men  the  last  year  had  been  greatley  obstructed  in 
their  duty  and  the  Town  much  injured  by  several  of  the  Inhabit- 
ants engaging  Men  at  a  higher  price  than  the  Committee  affixed, 
and  then  carrying  them  out  of  Town  and  selling  them  to  other 
Towns  ;  and  that  it  would  be  well  if  any  thing  could  be  done  to 
prevent  so  detremental  a  practice —  whereuon 
Voted,  that  Col".  Thomas  Daws 

HonWe.  Caleb  Davis  Esq1". 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  239 

be  a  Committee  to  make  enquiry  and  Report  what  they  Apprehend 
may  be  done  by  the  Town  for  preventing  the  like  wild  Practices 
for  the  future 

John  Magner  one  of  the  Persons  chosen  Constables  for  the  en- 
suing year  came  into  Meeting,  and  prayed  the  Town  to  excuse 
him  from  serving  in  that  Office  the  present  year  —  and  the  Ques- 
tion being  put  —  Passed  in  the  Negative 

[81.]  Mr.  John  Dinsclel  another  of  the  Persons  chosen  into  the 
Office  of  a  Constable,  came  into  Meeting  and  desired  the  Town 
that  he  might  be  excused  from  serving  as  a  Constable  the  Present 
year  —  and  the  Question  being  put —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

It  was  moved,  that  the  choice  of  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  referred 
to  the  Adjournment  —  and  the  Question  being  put — Passed  in 
the  Affermative  — 

The  Committee  to  whom  Mr.  Paul  Farmers  Petition  was  referred 
—  Report 

That  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor  make  such  addition  to  his  Salary 
while  Master  of  the  Almshouse  for  his  faculty  as  may  afford  him 
a  suitable  and  decent  support  and  also  make  him  such  allowances 
as  they  may  think  reasonable  on  Account  of  the  Taxes,  that  he 
now  owes  or  may  have  paid  since  he  was  in  that  Office 

The  foregoing  Report  as  amended  in  this  Meeting  having  been 
read  —  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  ac- 
cepted —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Edward  Jones  chosen  into  the  Office  of  Hogreeve  for  the  present 
year  came  into  Meeting,  and  prayed  that  he  might  be  excused 
from  serving  as  a  Hogreeve  the  present  year  —  and  the  Question 
being  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative  — 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  choice  of  another  Hogreeve  in  the 
Room  of  Mr.  Jones  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

[82.]  John  G ray  chosen  into  the  Office  of  Constable  for  the 
present  year,  came  into  Meeting  and  desired  the  Town  to  excuse 
him  from  serving  as  a  Constable  the  ensuing  year,  and  he  was 
accordingly  excused 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  shall  be  Adjourned 
it  shall  be  to  Thursday  the  21'.  Instant  3.  O.  'Clock  then  to  meet  at 
this  place 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  to  Thursda}r  Next 
then  to  meet  in  this  place 

Thursday  the  21'.  of  March  1782.  3.  O.Clock  P:  M:  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Jacob  Holland  —  sworn 
was  chosen  a  Hogreeve  for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Committee  to  consider  of  Cap'.  Amasa  Davis's  Petition, 
and  Report  to  the  Town,  having  Reported  accordingly  the  Town 
came  into  the  following  Vote  as  recommended  bv  said  Committee 
Viz'. 

Whereas  the  Selectmen  for  the  year  1774.  passed  an  account  of 
Cap'.  Amasa  Davis  Amounting  to  £53  :  1 1  :  3  and  gave  him  a 
draft  on  the  Town  Treasurer  for  the  said  Sum  and  the  said  Treas- 
urer not  being  in  Cash  discounted  the  Amount  of  said  Draught  by 


240  City  Document  No.  80. 

a  Receipt  dated  November  8th.  1774.  in  favour  of  Mr.  Edward 
Hollyday  then  one  of  the  Collectors  —  and  whereas  said  Davis  is 
still  possessed  of  said  Receipt,  and  has  [83.]  never  received  any 
Part  thereof  though  Often  requested  payment  of  said  Hollyday  — 
therefore  —  Resolved,  that  tlie  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby 
is  impowered  and  directed  to  deliver  Cap1:  Amasa  Davis  a  Promis- 
sary  Note  in  behalf  of  the  Town  for  the  Amount  of  said  Receipt, 
together  with  Lawfull  Interest  thereon  from  the  date  thereof  pro- 
vided it  shall  appear  that  the  same  has  not  been  paid,  said  Davis 
delivering  up  to  the  Treasurer  the  Receipt  aforesaid 

Moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  Committee  appointed  Auditors  of 
the  Accompts  of  the  Town  Treasurer  the  last  year  be  directed  to 
proceed  in  Auditing  and  settling  the  Accompts  of  the  late  Treas- 
urer David  Jeffries  Esqr. 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that 

Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
be  added  to  the  above  Committee 

Moved  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  call  upon  the  Delinquent 
Collectors  or  the  Administrators  of  such  of  them  as  are  deceased, 
in  order  for  a  Settlement  of  their  respective  Accounts  —  Viz': 
Abraham  Savage,  Edward  Hollvdays  Administrator,  Benjamin 
Henderson,  Benjamin  Cudworth  — Administrator,  Benjamin  Gray 
Administrator,  and  Josiah  Torey,  and  in  Case  the  Monies  that 
may  appear  due  from  them  respectively  are  not  paid  within  three 
Months  from  this  time  the  Town  Treasurer  is  directed  to  put  their 
Bonds  in  Suit  [84.]  And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Inhabitants   were   directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  then- 
Votes  for  four  Collectors  of   Taxes,  and  the   same   having  been 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 
Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 
Mr.  Benjamin  Sumner  Junr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Bayley 
Mr.  James  Thompson 
were  chosen  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  tlie  Year  ensuing 

Voted,  that  two  and  one  half  p  Cent,  be  and  hereby  is  allowed 
to  the  Persons  that  shall  be  chose  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  the  year 
ensuing,  on  all  such  Sums  of  Money  as  they  shall  Collect,  pro- 
vided, that  they  shall  conform  to  the  Acts  and  Resolutions  of  the 
General  Assembly  and  the  Votes  of  this  Town  ;  which  Premium 
appears  to  be  Just  and  equitable  and  an  ample  allowance  to  the 
Collectors  to  encourage  them  to  discharge  their  Duty  with  dili- 
gence and  fidelity  ;  provided  also  that  each  of  said  Collectors  give 
Bond  with  sufficient  Sureties  to  the  Satisfaction  of  the  Selectmeu, 
for  the  faithfull  discharge  of  their  duty  in  said  Office  and  comply- 
ing with  this  Vote 

[85.]  Moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  and 
hereby  are  enjoined  to  pay  into  the  County  and  Town  Treasuries 
in  proportion  as  they  shall  pay  into  the  State  Treasury  from  time  to 
time 

John  Magner  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  year  insuiug  came  into 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  241 

Meeting  and  desired  that  he  might  be  excused  from  serving  in 
that  Office  for  reasons  offered  the  Town  and  he  was  accordingly 
excused 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  of  Boston  at  their  last- 
Meeting  to  consider  what  Steps  are  necessary  to  be  taken  touching 
such  Persons  who  may  be  so  lost  to  the  Welfare  of  said  Town  as  to 
Inlist  Soldiers  in  said  Town  before  the  perticular  Quota  of  said 
Town  of  Boston  can  be  raised  —  beg  leave  to  report 

That  they  have  considered  of  every  kind  of  discouragement 
which  the  Town  can  lawfully  give  to  Persons  of  the  above  discrip- 
tion ;  and  recommend  that  all  good  Inhabitants  of  said  Town 
would  be  perticularly  watchfull  of  any  Persons  of  the  aforesaid 
discription  and  upon  detecting  any  such  Person  in  the  Act  of  In- 
listing  Soldiers,  in  said  Town  for  the  use  of  other  Towns  before 
the  Quota  of  said  Town  is  raised,  to  give  the  name  of  such  Per- 
son to  the  Selectmen  of  said  Town  in  order  that  Measures  may  be 
taken  which  will  correct  such  an  abuse  of  the  Inhabitants  —  all 
which  is  submitted 

Thomas  Daws  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  Read  and  considered  the 
Question  was  put  — Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted —  Passed 
in  the  Affermative 

[86.]  This  being  the  time  Assigned  for  the  choice  of  Wardens, 
it  was  Moved,  "  that  the  Vote  passed  at  the  late  Meeting  for  now- 
coming  to  the  choice  of  Wardens  for  the  ensuing  year  be  recon- 
sidered, and  that  no  Wardens  be  now  chosen  for  the  present  year" 
...  before  the  Question  was  put  it  was  Moved  that  the  further 
consideration  of  this  Motion  be  referred  to  May  Meeting,  but  this 
Motion  did  not  obtain  —  The  other  Motion  was  then  considered, 
and  after  large  debate  the  Question  was  put  —  but  the  Vote  being 
scrupeled,  a  Poll  was  called  for  and  the  same  being  taken,  it 
appeared  that  the  Motion  was  carried  by  a  large  Majorit}- 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  Mon- 
day the  first  of  April  next  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon,  then  to  meet  at 
Faneiuel  Hall 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  April  P.  1782.  3.  O. Clock  Afternoon  Met  at  Faneiuel 
Hall  According  to  Adjournment 

Honble:   Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  in  the  Chair 

Thomas  Grant  chosen  a  Constable  at  the  late  Meeting,  prayed 
the  Town  that  he  might  be  excused  from  serving  in  that  Office  the 
ensuing  Year  —  and  the  Question  being  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affer- 
mative. 

Mr.  Samuel  Brown  chosen  a  Surveyer  of  Wheat,  was  excused 
by  the  Town  from  serving  in  that  Office  the  ensuing  year 

[87.]  Mr.  Edward  V.  Brown  was  chosen  a  Surveyer  of  Wheat 
for  the  Year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  Six  Constables,  and  the'  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared  that 


242  City  Document  No.   80. 

Mess"  :  William  Rogers 

John  Ballard  sworn 

John  McLane 
Peter  Geyer 

Patrick  Conner       '  sworn 

John  Butterfield  sworn 

were  chosen  Constables  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Moved  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  hereby  is  directed  and 
impowered  to  allow  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  Interest  on  all 
Sums  that  has  or  may  be  advanced  by  them  for  the  Support  of  the 
Almshouse  as  has  been  allowed  by  the  General  Court  of  this  Com- 
monwealth on  their  consoladated  Securities 

The  Overseers  of  the  Poor  for  the  Town  are  sorrey  to  be  under 
the  disagreeable  necessity  of  informing  the  Town  of  the  unhappy 
situation  of  the  Poor  in  the  Almshouse  for  want  of  the  Necessa- 
ries of  Life  — They  have  been  without  Bread  ever  since  Last  Tues- 
day, untill  Saturday  when  only  two  hundred  of  hard  Bread  was 
procured  for  them,  and  this  Day  it  will  be  all  expended,  and  noth- 
ing but  Water  for  them  to  Drink  ;  owing  to  the  want  of  Cash  from 
the  State  and  Town  [88.]  Treasurers,  where  large  Sums  are  due 
that  would  enable  them  to  procure  those  Necessaries,  therefore 
37our  Memorialists  would  implore  the  Assistance  of  the  Town,  that 
the  Collectors  may  be  enjoined  immediately  to  Collect  the  Taxes  or 
in  Lieue  thereof  Grain  and  Other  Necessaries  of  Life  for  their  re- 
lief—  The  Master  of  the  Almshouse  being  greatley  in  debt 
already,  for  Beef  and  other  Necessaries,  and  by  means  of  his  not 
having  it  in  his  Power  to  discharge  the  same  is  refused  any  further 
Credit — the  consequences  of  which  must  be  obvious  to  all  — 
wherefor  the  Overseers  in  consequence  of  the  trust  reposed  in  them 
relying  on  the  Justice,  wisdom  and  humanity  of  the  Town,  are 
constrained  to  represent  to  them,  the  unhappy  situation  above 
represented  not  doubting  but  something  effectual  will  be  adopted 
by  them,  in  behalf  of  the  Overseers 

Wm  :  Phillips  Chairman 

The  foregoing  Memorial  having  been  read  and  duly  considered 
—  the  following  Votes  were  passed  by  the  Town  Viz'. 

Voted,  that  such  Sum  or  Sums  of  Money  of  the  New  P^mission 
in  the  Treasurey,  as  the  Overseers  of  the  Poor  may  Judge  neces- 
sary for  the  support  of  the  Almshouse,  be  sold  for  that  purpose. 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  empowered 
and  directed  upon  application  made  to  him  by  the  Overseers  of  the 
Poor,  therefore,  to  make  sale  of  so  much  of  said  [89.]  Bills  as 
they  shall  Judge  will  be  Sufficient  for  that  purpose,  upon  the  best 
terms  they  can 

Moved,  that  a  Tax  of  One  Thousand  Pounds  be  laid  upon  the 
Inhabitants  for  the  use  of  the  Almshouse,  but  the  Motion  after 
some  debate,  was  withdrawn 

To  the  Inhabitants  of  Boston  in  legal  Town  Meeting  Assembled 

Samuel  Ruggles  in  behalf  of  the  Estate  of  Edward  Hollyday  one 
of  the  late  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  said  Town  Humbly  sheweth 

That  in  December  1773  the  Sum  of  £2449  :  1  :  8  — was  commit- 
ted to  said  Edward  Hollyday  to  Collect,  the  Tax  bills  were  deliv- 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  243 

ered  by  him  in  January  1774.  between  which  time  and  the  19th.  of 
April  1775  —  (but  little  more  than  a  year,  he  had  Collected  and 
paid  to  the  Severall  Collectors  Treasurers  more  than  three  quarters 
of  the  whole  Sum,  notwithstanding  the  imbarrasments  of  the 
Town,  occasioned  by  the  Port  Bill  &c  —  immediately  after  said 
19th  of  April  the  Inhabitants  were  thrown  into  the  utmost  confu- 
sion, the  Injuries  they  suffered  and  the  losses  they  sustained  are 
too  well  known,  and  (by  many)  too  keenly  felt  Need  no  recital.  — 
they  returned  at  different  times  in  the  Year  1776.  and  but  few  of 
them  who  owed  the  said  Collector  were  at  that  time  able  to  pay 
—  Many  still  remain  in  reduced  circumstances,  some  have  died 
and  some  Joined  the  Enemy  as  will  fully  Appear,  by  examining 
the  List  herewith  exhibited  to  the  Town  — 

Your  Memoralist  prays  the  Town  to  take  the  above  [90.]  State 
of  facts,  into  their  wise  and  serious  consideration  and  previous  to 
suing  the  Bond  make  such  allowances,  or  abatements,  as  the  Town 
may  think  reasonable  Samuel  Ruggles 

The  foregoing  Memorial  having  been  read  and  considered  by  the 
Town —  It  was  moved  and  carried  that  this  Memorial  with  the 
Papers  accompanying  the  same  be  committed 
Voted,  that  Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr.  (excused) 
Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
be   a  Committee  to  take  up  this  matter  &  Report  as  soon  as  may 
be,  what  they  Judge  ought  to  be  done  thereon  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  suspend  putting  the 
late  Collector  Hollydays  Bonds  in  Suit  untill  the  further  Orders  of 
the  Town 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  lay 
before  the  Committee  Appointed  for  Auditing  the  Town  Treasurers 
Accompts,  such  Sums  as  within  their  knowledge  ought  to  be  paid 
into  the  Town  Treasurey 

After  some  debate  whether  this  Meeting  should  be  dissolved  or 
Adjourned,  it  was  Voted,  as  the  sense  of  the  Town  that  their 
should  be  another  Adjournment — and  the  Meeting  was  accord- 
ingly Adjourned,  to  Tuesday  seven  night  3.  O. Clock  P:  M: 

[91.]  Tuesday  the  9th.  Day  of  April  1782.  3.  O.  Clock  After- 
noon —  Met  according  to  Adjournment  — 

Honble:   Samuel  Adams  Esq1",  in  the  Chair 

The  Persons  chosen  Constables  at  the  late  Meeting  having  been 
duly  notified  of  the  choice  of  the  Town  had  made  of  them  as  Con- 
stables for  the  Year  ensuing,  and  also  required  to  qualify  them- 
selves as  the  Law  directs  —  Constable  Simpson  acquainted  the 
Inhabitants  that  said  Persons  were  ready  and  intended  taking  the 
Oath  of  Office 

The  Committee  appointed  for  Inlisting  this  Towns  proportion  of 
Men  for  the  Continental  Army  —  Reported  to  the  Town  —  That 
they  had  Inlisted  ten  Men  for  the  service  —  that  they  had  received 
the  full  Sum  of  £45  .  for  60  Classes  —  that  7  Classes  have 
paid  upwards  of  £40  —  one   Class  £39  —  and  one  Class  £15  — 


244  City  Document  No.  80. 

making  in  the  whole  Sixty  nine  Classes  which  have  paid  into  the 
Committee 

That  they  have  met  with  many  interruptions,  through  the  man- 
agement of  such  as  wanted  to  procure  and  sell  Men  to  the  Towns  in 
the  Country ;  but  were  now  in  a  fair  Waj'  of  making  such  discov- 
eries as  will  put  a  stop  to  such  practises  —  and  hope  that  by  per- 
severance and  an  Attention  to  the  buisiness  laid  upon  them,  they 
may  be  able  to  Answer  the  intentions  of  the  Town  in  their  ap- 
pointment—  that  in  their  Opinion  the  raising  the  Bounty  now 
given,  will  not  have  so  good  an  effect,  as  continuing  already  to 
the  Sum  they  have  hitherto  [92.]  offered  to  such  as  would 
Inlist,  and  that  those  who  incline  to .  enter  into  the  service  when 
they  hear  that  this  Meeting  is  dissolved,  it  will  quicken  the  Inlist- 
ments  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  this  Report  be  accepted  and  that  the  Committee  be 
desired  to  continue  their  good  services  in  procuring  this  Towns 
proportion  of  Men  for  the  Continental  service 

The  Committee  appointed  for  settling  Accompts  with  the  Board 
of  War,  being  called  upon  to  make  Report ;  Acquainted  the  Town 
that  they  were  not  as  yet  able  to  make  Report  — 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  Col0.  Edward  Proctor  be  requested  to 
give  out  Orders  to  the  respective  Captains  of  the  Companies  of 
Militia  in  the  Regiment  under  his  Command,  to  make  return  of  the 
Small  Amies,  received  of  the  Board  of  War,  for  the  use  of  such 
Men  in  his  Regiment  as  were  destitute  of  Arms,  and  not  able  to 
purchase  for  themselves,  informing  in  whose  hands  they  were 
placed,  or  what  had  become  of  them  ;  as  also  of  the  Cartridges 
delivered  out :  the  same  to  be  laid  before  the  Selectmen  immedi- 
ately —  and  that  Col0.  Proctor  be  served  with  a  Copy  of  this  Vote 
by  the  Town  Clerk 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  all  things  which  remain  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  general  Town  Meeting  in  May 
next,  then  to  be  considered  and  acted  upon  — 

[93. J  Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be 
and  hereby  are  given  to  the  Honble :  Samuel  Adams  Esq1',  the  Mod- 
erator of  this  Meeting,  for  dispatching  the  Buisiness  thereof 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Male  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston  of 
Twenty  one  years  of  Age  &  upwards,  qualified  as  the  Committee 
\_sic]  prescribes,  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town  Meeting 
Assembled  at  Fanuiel  Hall  on  Monday  the  1st  Day  of  April  Anno 
Domini  1782  — 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Howard 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read  — 

Paragraphs  of  the  Constitution  or  form  of  Government,  relative 
to  the  choice  of  Governor  Lievetennant  Governor  and  Six  Sena- 
tors for  the  County  of  Suffolk  was  also  read. 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  That  the  Town  will  now  come  to  the  choice 
of  a  Governor,  Lievetennant  Governor,  and  Six  Senators,  for  the 
County  of  Suffolk. 


Boston   Town   Records,    1782.  245 

It  was  then  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes  will  be  re- 
ceived but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they  propose  the  Poll 
shall  be  closed  at  One  O  Clock 

[94.]  It  was  then  moved  and  Voted  that  the  Bells  in  the 
Town  be  set  a  ringing  at  half  past  12.  O'Clock 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Governor  with  the  number  of  Votes  for 
each  Person  — Viz1. 

His  Excellency  John  Hancock  Esqr. 
Five  hundred  &  ninety  eight  Votes 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Governor  brought  over 

Votes, 

Honble  :  James  Bowdoin  Esq1".    ---------       7 

Houble :  Benjamin  Lincoln  Esqri -1 

Honble :  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.     ---------       1 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Lievetenant  Governor  with  the  Number 
of  Votes  for  each  Person  Viz1 : — 

Votes 

His  Honor  Thomas  Gushing  Esqr.       -     - 585 

Honourable  Azor  Orne  Esqr. -  5 

Honble :  James  Warren  Esqr. -     -     -     -  4 

Nathaniel  Tracy  Esqr.       -     -    ' -     -     -  2 

Cap1.  Elias   Parkman  ------------  1 

Persons  Voted  for  as  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk,  with 
the  Number  of  Votes  for  each  Persons  Viz4. 

Votes 

Honbble :  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 580 

Honble :  John  Pitts  Esqr. -     -  586 

Honble :  Jeremiah  Powell  Esqr. 59  2 

Honble :  Jabez  Fisher  Esqr. -     -     -  592 

Honble :  Samuel  Nyles  Esqr.    - 355 

HonbIe :  Increase  Sumner  Esqr. -     -     -  589 

HonbIe :  Cotton  Tufts  Esqr. -217 

Honble :  James  Bowdoin  Esqr.      --------       1 

[95.]  Honble :  Benjamin  Austin  Esq'.   --------        1 

Honble :  William  Phillips  Esq1". 4 

John  Lowell  Esq1". __■--_       l 

Ebenezer  Storer  Esqr.  ---- 1 

Honble :  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 1 

Mr.  Seth  Sumner 1 

Attested  Copies  of  the  Persons  Voted  for  as  Governor  Lievetenant 
Governor  &  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk,  were  committed 
to  the  Secretary  of  this  Commonwealth,  and  the  Inclosure  sealed 
up  in  Town  Meeting  Superscribed  as  follows  —  Viz'. 
For 

John  Avery  Junr.  Esqr. 
Secretary  of  tbe  Commonwealth 
of  Massachusetts 
The  number  of  Votes  of  the  Town  of  Boston  for  a  Governor 
Lievetenant  Governor  and  Six  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk, 
Certified  within  and  sealed  up  in  Town  Meeting 
Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


246  City  Document  No.  80. 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  on  Tuesday,  the  14th.  Day  of  May 
Anno  Domini — 10  O. 'Clock  —  Forenoon 

Prayer  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Lothrop 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

[96.]  That  part  of  the  Constitution  or  Form  of  Govornmeut 
which  relates  to  the  choice  of  Representatives  read 

Sundry  Laws  to  be  read  at  the  May  Meeting  were  accordingly 
read      --------- 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  Seven  Persons  to  Rep- 
resent them  in  the  General  Assembly  of  the  Commonwealth  of 
Massachusetts  to  be  held  at  the  State  House  in  Boston  upon  the 
last  Wednesday  of  May  Current,  Agreeable  to  the  Constitution  or 
Frame  of  Government  for  the  Massachusetts  —  The  Inhabitants 
were  accordingly  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for 
Seven  Representatives,  and  then  it  was  declared  by  the  Select- 
men that  no  Votes  will  be  received,  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and 
that  they  propose  the  Poll  shall  be  closed  at  twelve  O. Clock 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  Seven  Representatives,  the 
Number  of  the  same  were  found  to  be  three  hundred  and  thirty- 
five,  but  one  of  the  Persons,  Voted  for,  having  three  hundred  and 
fifty  Votes,  which  difference  might  have  arisen  from  some  of  the 
Votes  having  been  placed  to  Mr.  Lowell  which  should  have  been 
put  to  Mr.  Lovels,  or  to  the  Votes  which  had  been  given  in,  and 
received  seperately,  and  not  on  one  piece  of  Paper,  which  has  been 
Often  practised,  and  in  such  case  prevents  the  Number  of  Voters 
from  being  exactly  assertained  —  the  Selectmen  therefore  accord- 
ing to  their  usual  practise,  declared  the  Number  of  Votes,  to  be 
three  hundred  &  fifty  [97.]  and  that  the  following  Gentlemen 
were  chose  by  a  Majority  of  said  Votes  —  Viz1. 

Thomas  Dawes  Esqr.  -----  332 
John  Lowell  —  Esq1".    -----     350 

Honble :  James  Lovell  Esqr.  -  -  -  251 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr.  -  -  -  -  324 
Leonard  Jarvis  Esq'.     -----     204 

John  Rowe  —  Esqr. 213 

After  the  above  declaration  made  by  the  Selectmen  ;  a  number 
of  the  Inhabitants  gave  it  as  their  Opinion  that  there  was  an 
irregularity,  in  the  receiving  and  Collecting  the  Votes,  and  some 
mistake  as  to  the  Numbers  placed  to  the  Names  of  the  Persons 
Voted  for 

It  was  therefore  moved  that  the  sense  of  the  Inhabitants  present 
might  be  taken,  whether  in  their  Opinion  the  Elections  were 
valed  —  And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Negative 

On  a  Motion  made 

Voted,  that  it  is  the  sense  of  the  Town  that  no  Vote  for  a  Rep- 
resentative be  received  but  from  such  as  shall  enter  Fanuiel  Hall 
after  giving  in  their  Votes  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  Notify  the  Inhabitants, 
of  the  intended  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  to  Wednesday  the 


Boston   Town   Kecords,   1782.  247 

fifteenth  of  May,  Instant  for  the  choice  of  Seven  Persons  to 
Represent  this  Town  in  the  General  Court  of  this  Commonwealth 
the  Year  ensuing 

Moved,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  to 
Morrow  ten  O  Clock  in  the  forenoon,  then  to  meet  in  this  Place 

[98.]  And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  by  the 
Selectmen 

Wednesday  the  15th.  Day  of  May  Instant  10.  O'Clock  in  the 
Forenoon  Town  met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Town  Clerk  was  called  upon  to  read  the  Minutes  of  the 
transactions  of  the  Meeting  Yesterday,  and  they  were  accordingly 
read  to  the  Inhabitants 

A  Motion  was  made  &  seconded  that  the  Votes  passed  by  the 
Town  yesterday,  that  the  Elections  of  Representatives  was  not 
valed  —  be  reconsidered  —  After  considerable  debate,  it  was  the 
sense  of  the  Town,  that  the  Question  should  not  be  put 

The  Selectmen  having  declared  to  the  Town,  that  theire  decla- 
ration of  3Testerday  respecting  the  Number  of  Votes  for  Representa- 
tives was  erronious,  and  that  no  choice  was  had  —  It  was  moved  & 

Voted,  that  the  Town  will  now  Assign  a  time  for  coming  to  the 
choice  of  Representatives 

Voted,  that  the  Town  will  come  to  the  choice  of  Representa- 
tives at  3.  O  Clock 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Poll  for  Representatives  be  closed 
at.  4.  O'Clock  Afternoon 

[99.]     Adjourned  to  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  O'Clock,  Town  Met  according  to  Adjournment 
The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  Seven  Representatives,  and  then  it  was  declared  by  the 
Selectmen,  that  no  Votes  will  be  received  but  such  as  are  unfolded, 
and  on  one  peice  of  Paper,  and  that  such  of  the  Inhabitants  as 
give  in  their  Votes  at  the  Door  must  enter  the  Hall ;  and  that  they 
propose  the  Poll  be  closed  at  half  past  4.  O  Clock. 

The  Votes,  being  brought  in  for  Seven  Representatives,  the 
Number  of  the  same  were  found  to  be  three  hundred  &  Thirty 
one  ;  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared  that  the  following  Per- 
sons were  chose  Viz' : 

Votes 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr.      -     -     - 321 

John  Lowell  Esqr.   ---------     316 

Samuel  A.  Otis  Esqr.    --------     200 

Leonard  Jarvis  Esqr. 291  excus'd 

Stephen  Higginson  Esqr.  -------     313  exc'd 

John  Rowe  Esq1".      -     - 223 

Honble :  James  Lovell  Esqr. 206  exc'd 

The  choice  of  Representatives  being  over  and  declared  by  the 
Selectmen,  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  in  order  that  the 
Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  Other  Affairs  mentioned  in 
the  Warrant ;  accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew  and  brought 
in  their  Votes,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that 


248  City  Document  No.  80. 

[100.]  The  Honble :  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moder- 
ator unanimously. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz'.  "To  consider  whether  In- 
structions shall  be  given  to  the  Representatives  that  may  be 
chosen  "  —  was  read  —  whereupon  the  Question  was  put  — 
Whether  the  Representatives  shall  be  Instructed  Passed  in  the 
Affirmative 

Moved,  "  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  prepare  In- 
structions for  our  Representatives"  —  and  the  Question  being  put 
—  Passed  in  the  Affermative  "  —  and  the  Question  being  put  — 
Passed  in  the  Negative 

The  Article  of  the  Warrant,  relative  to  the  subject  matter  of  a 
Report  from  the  Committee  to  Audit  the  Treasurers  Accompts  & 
give  in  a  State  of  the  Treasury  was  read  —  whereupon  said  Com- 
mittee give  in  the  following  Report 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Audit  the  Town  Treasurers  Ac- 
compts Report  as  follows 

That  it  appears  by  the  Treasurers  Books,  there  remains  unpaid 

of  the  Towns  Debts  —  Viz1,  due 

to  30  Persons  for  Money  borrowed  )  «„,-/».- 

,    »       ...     ci  .                  J  V  £6/6o 

before  the  Seige j 

To  42  Persons  for  Balances  of  Selectmen  &  )  „.  .,9~ 

Overseers  Draughts --      j 

Currency 

to  273  d°.  for  Money  borrowed  from  1"777  to  1780  £49762  [101.] 
to   23  Persons  for  money  in  New  Emission  £1574 

to  122  d°.  Ballances  of  Selectmen  &  Overseers  Draughts  \  f])    . 
to  171  bro'.  into  Specie     ------     ...     -      J-ilzl* 

to  125  d°.  drawn  for  in  Specie    ---------      2735 


615 

The  exact  amount  of  the  debts  in  Specie  cannot  be  ascertained 
as  the  date  of  the  several  Notes    are  not  particularly  specified  in 
the   Books,  but  an  Estimate  has  been  made,  by  which  it  appears 
the  State  of  the  Treasury,  if  all  the  Notes  are  entered  is  nearly  as 
follows  Viz'. 

To  the  Amount  of  Notes  given  before  the  seige  )    n,p.CQC     ,  - 
with  the  Interest     ---------      [  *1Ub»b  »i0  »     ' 

To  ditto  since  the  seige  with  the  Interest  -     -     -      4638  ,,  4  ,,    7 
To  balances  of  Draughts  before  &  since  the  seige      5100  ,,  0  ,,  — 


£20,425 

To  Premiums  due  to  the  Collectors  and  Abatements  on  the  last 
Taxes,  the  Amount  of  which  cannot  be  assertained  as  no  settle- 
ment has  been  made  with  the  Collectors  since  the  Seige  —  there- 
fore your  Committee  purpose  to  the  Consideration  of  the  Town  as 
the  Collectors  received  the  Taxes  before  1781  in  Old  Ernmission 
Money,  and  paid  great  part  of  it  into  the  Treasure y,  after  it  ceased 
to  be  a  Currency,  whether  they  ought  not  to  receive  their  Pre- 
meiums  in  the  Same  Money  they  paid  into  the  Treasury  where  it 
now  remains 


Boston   Town   Records,    1782.  249 

To  discharge  the  above  debts,  their  appears  to  be  due  from  the 
Collectors,  the  following  Sums  —  Viz1. 

From  Frauds  Shaw  on  Acco'.  — 
1£  Tax i 

James  Thompson  -  -  -  - 
Benjamin  Sumner  -  -  -  - 
Thomas  Bay  ley    ----- 


Beef  Tax 

Specie 

Total 

1066 

£630 

1383 

£3079 

1163 

310 

1666 

3139 

512 

503 

1209 

2224 

629 

165 

1289 

2074 

1608     -     -     -        10516 

[  102.3     States  Certificates  &  Interest  New  |  ~_ 

Emission  Bills J      " 

In  Bills  of  the  old  Emission       -        £38,000 
of  the  New  Emission  -     -     -     -  21,734 

It  appears  by  the   Selectmens  Accounts  that  they  purchased 
large  parcels  of  Clothing  and  other  necessaries  on  Account  of  the 
Towns  Quota  of  Supplies  for  the  Army,  part  of  which  has  been  re- 
paid, but  there  still  remains  due  to  the  Town  on  Account  of  these 
Supplies  in  Specie  about  —  £900 

And  for  the  support  of  the  State  Poor  \     ..  -^  _ 
-     -     -     in  the  Almshouse    -     -     -     -  j 

The  Ballances  due  from  other  Collectors  before  the   Seige  are 
not  bro4 :  into  this  Estamate  as  its  uncertain  if  any  part  will  be 
recovered  — 

It  likewise  Appears  that  the  Treasurer  has  paid  Large  Sums  on 
Account  of  the  War  great  part  of  which  the  Committee  suppose  is 
to  be  repaid  out  of  the  State  Treasurey  or  deducted  out  of  the 
Towns  pi'oportion  of  the  State  Tax,  they  therefore  propose  that  a 
Committee  be  appointed  to  inquire  into  the  Expenditure  of  this 
Money,  &  report  what  Appears  to  be  due  either  from  the  State  or 
those  who  received  the  following   Sums   out   of   the   Treasurey, 
Amounting  to  upwards  of  Nine  hundred  Thousand  Pounds  Conti- 
nental Money  Viz*. 

Paid  Col°.  Proctor  for  raising  Men  &c  -     ■ 
p  Resolve  of  the  General  Court  -     -     -     - 

Osgood    &    Phelps    for   first   &    Second 

Quota  of  Beef 

John  Simpkius   for   supplys   to    Soldiers 

Familys" 

[103.]     for  Horses  for  the  use  of  the  Army 
Col0.  Hatch  Bounty  &  Mileage    ------ 

Col°.  Crafts  &  Others  for  Shoes  &  Stockings 
Balance   due    to   the    Commee.    for   purchasing 
Grain - 

925,  134  0  0 
Paid  the  aforementioned  sums  due  from  the  "  Collectors  &  the 
State  Treasurer  Amounting  to  £13,400  from  which  may  be  de- 
ducted £3,400  for  the  Preme.  due  to  the  Collectors  &  the  Abate- 
ments on  the  Two  last  Taxes,  will  leave  £10,000  specie  in  the 
Treasurey,  a  Sum  sufficient  to  pay  all  the  Debts  the  Town  owes 


£620 
358,958 

0 
0 

0 
0 

515,569 

0 

0 

24,720 

0 

0 

11,200 
6,068 
7,595 

0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 

1,024 

0 

0 

250  City  Document  No.  80. 

except  those  for  Money  borrowed  before  the  seige  &  the  Interest 
due  thereon  —  The  Drafts  of  the  Selectmen  since  March  Amots.  to 
£466  &  those  of  the  Overseers  Arnots.  to  £375  18/  and  the 
paper  Money  in  the  Treasurey  are  not  included  in  this  Estimate  — 
the  former  ought  to  be  paid  out  of  the  Tax  now  to  be  granted  ;  the 
latter  must  be  paid  out  of  the  Money  now  due  from  the  Collec- 
tors —  the  Bills  of  the  New  Emission  in  the  Treasurey  if  sold  at 
three  for  one  would  raise  £7240.  Specie  a  sum  sufficient  to  enable 
the  Overseers  to  provide  for  the  Poor  &  to  pay  the  Interest  (at 
least)  if  not  a  great  part  of  the  Principal  of  the  Debts  due  for 
Money  borrowed  before  the  Seige,  but  as  this  will  be  Attended 
with  considerable  Loss  &  these  Bills  must  finally  be  Redeemed  at 
1^  for  a  hard  Dollar  the  Committee  cannot  Advise  to  their  being 
disposed  of,  unless  two  for  one  can  now  be  obtained,  at  which  rate 
they  would  produce  a  Sum  Sufficient  to  pay  Off  all  the  Debts  due 
from  the  Town  —  Should  the  Overseers  drafts  be  paid  out  of  the 
Money  supposed  to  be  in  the  Treasurey  there  [104.]  Will  not  be 
sufficient  to  pay  Off  all  the  Notes  given  since  the  Seige,  there  is 
no  Doubt  that  the  Proprietors  have  a  Sufficient  Sum  for  the  Over- 
seers drafts  would  be  content  to  wait  for  the  principal  (if  the  In- 
terest was  paid)  untill  the  New  Emission  Bills  were  Redeemed,  or 
other  provision  made  to  discharge  their  Notes  —  Therefore  your 
Committee  propose  the  following  regulations  to  the  Consideration 
of  the  Town,  should  they  be  Voted  &  Attended  too,  the  Credit  of 
the  Treasurey  will  be  restored  &  the  Town  on  any  Emergency 
will  be  able  to  borrow  such  Sums  as  they  may  have  occasion  for 
provided  the  Lender  can  depend  on  being  paid  out  of  the  Tax  laid 
for  that  purpose 

1*.  That  the  Treasurer  be  directed  to  Cause  an  Advertizement  to 
be  published  Advertising  all  Persons  who  are  possessed  of  any 
Notes  given  by  the  Late  Treasurer  Jeffries  to  bring  them  in  to  be 
liquidated  —  Passed 

2d :  That  he  give  new  Notes  for  the  Amount  thereof  in  Specie 
one  for  the  Principal  and  another  for  the  Interest  to  those  who 
desire  it  &  expect  to  receive  the  Interest  out  of  the  Money  now 
due  from  the  Collectors  —  Passed 

3<uy#  That  these  Notes  be  all  Numbered,  those  for  principal  & 
those  for  Interest  both  to  begin  at  N°.  One,  those  for  the  Interest 
to  be  paid  before  those  for  the  Principal,  when  there  is  not  suffi- 
cient in  the  Treasury  to  pay  both  &  in  [105.]  Order  to  induce 
Persons  to  bring  in  their  Notes  those  that  bring  in  first  to  be  paid 
first  &  so  in  Course  as  they  are  Numbered  —  Passed 

4ly.  That  all  the  small  notes  &  Ballances  remaining  Unpaid  on 
any  drafts  which  are  to  be  taken  by  the  Collectors  in  payment  of 
Taxes  to  be  liquidated  &  the  Sums  to  be  paid  indorsed  on  the 
hack  of  the  Note,  or  an  Order  drawn  on  the  Collector  for  the 
Amount ;  or  inddrsed  on  the  Proprietors  Rate  Bill 

5thly.  The  Collectors  be  directed  not  to  receive  any  Notes  or 
Orders  in  payment  of  Taxes  except  they  are  endorsed  by  Treas- 
urer Boyer  and  that  they  be  enjoined  to  Collect  &  pay  into  the 
Treasurey,  the  remainder  of  all  the  Taxes  committed  to  them 
without  Delay  — 


Boston   Town  Records,  1782.  251 

6thy.  That  the  Treasurer  be  directed  in  case  any  of  the  Collectors 
neglect  to  pay  in  the  Taxes  After  the  time  limitted  by  Law  to  put 
the  Bonds  in  Suit 

7thly.  That  the  Selectmen  be  directed  not  to  make  any  drafts  on 
the  Treasurer  to  be  paid  out  of  the  Money  now  Collecting,  except 
for  the  pay  of  the  Watchmen  which  Money  being  granted  to  pay 
Off  the  Notes  for  Money  Borrowed  on  the  Credit  of  those  very 
Taxes  &  the  Drafts  of  the  two  last  Years  :  cannot  be  Applied  to 
any  Other  use 

8thy.  That  in  all  their  future  contracts  &  drafts  on  the  Treas- 
urey,  they  direct  the  payment  to  be  made  out  of  the  Tax  granted 
for  the  purpose  of  defraying  the  [106.]  Charges  of  the  ensu- 
ing year  when  the  same  is  Collected  ;  and  to  continue  this  practice 
from  j'ear  to  year 

By  the  Drafts  of  the  Selectmen  and  Overseers  for  the  last  two 
years  it  appears  that  the  Ordinary  Charges  of  the  Town  for 
Schoolmasters  Watchmen,  Assessors,  Treasurer,  Town  Clerk  & 
Other  Necessary  Expencies  have  amounted  to  about  £4500  p 
Annum  the  Charges  of  the  ensuing  year  may  be  estimated  at  the 
same  sum,  to  which  is  to  be  Added  £1500  already  granted  for  re- 
pairing the  Streets  &  Faneuil  Hall  &  Building  a  New  School 
House  this  Will  make  the  Tax  for  the  ensuing  year  £6,000  ex- 
clusive of  any  demands  that  may  be  made  on  the  Town  for  the 
supply  of  the  Army  —  if  any  such  Demand  is  likely  to  be  made, 
it  will  be  necessary  that  a  further  grant  be  made  if  it  is  not 
wanted  for  the  Army  it  may  be  appropriated  to  pay  the  Notes, 
given  before  the  Seige  in  case  the  New  Emission  Bills  are  not 
redeemed  —  what  Sum  will  be  necessary  for  this  purpose,  &  to 
make  good  any  Abatements  that  may  be  made  by  the  Assessors 
is  submitted  to  the  consideration  of  the  Town 

The  Committee  having  gone  through  the  examination  into  the 
State  of  the  Treasurey,  &  the  Drafts  of  the  Selectmen  &  Over- 
seers of  the  Poor,  as  directed  by  the  Vote  of  the  Town,  They  bes: 
leave  to  mention  that  no  enquiry  has  ever  been  made  into  the 
Conduct  of  the  Assessors  ;  and  as  the  proceedings  of  all  Persons 
who  are  intrusted  with  the  Management  of  Publick  Money  ought 
to  be  enquired  into  they  [107.]  Propose  that  a  Committee  be  ap- 
pointed to  examine  the  Assessors  Books,  to  know  on  what  princi- 
pals they  proceed  in  Apportioning  the  Taxes  on  the  Inhabitants  — 
what  proportion  the  Real  Estate  Bears  to  the  Personal  —  and  how 
they  estimate  the  Personal  Estate  &  Faculty  in  order  to  raise  the 
sum  to  be  Assessed  —  These  are  matters  that  the  Town  should 
be  acquainted  with,  &  if  it  should  appear  from  such  examination 
that  the  Assessors  have  been  in  an  Error,  the  Town  may  then 
give  such  directions  as  to  prevent  the  like  in  future. 

Since  Stating  the  Above  Acco1:  of  the  Treasury  your  Committee 
have  been  informed  that  the  Board  of  War  have  a  large  demand 
on  the  Town  for  200  Bush9:  Corn  about  500  small  Arms,  Car- 
touch  Boxes,  Belts,  Slings,  Cartridges,  Shot,  &  Other  Articles, 
to  the  Amount  of  £2640  specie 

The  Arms  &c  were  delivered  to  the  Col8.  Proctor,  Simms,  & 
Hatch,  for  the   Inhabitants  who  were   not  provided  at  that  time 


252  City  Document  No.  80. 

with  Arms  some  of  these  were  Sold  &  paid  for  at  the  delivery 
Others  were  lent  to  such  Persons  as  were  unable  to  purchase,  & 
were  to  be  returned,  but  no  Account  has  been  rendred  of  those 
Arms  &c.  nor  have  they  been  returned  —  Its  proposed  that  a 
Committee  be  appointed  to  enquire  into  these  Matters  &  what 
consideration  the  Town  have  received  for  the  Arms  delivered  up 
before  the  Seige  that  were  Afterwards  taken  &  repaired  by  the 
State,  &  make  report  at  the  Next  Town  Meeting 

Edward  Payne 

p  Order 

[108.]  The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  consid- 
ered by  Paragraphs  —  the  Town  came  in  to  the  following  Votes 
thereon 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  confer  with  the  Col- 
lectors relative  to  the  Moneys  paid  into  the  Treasurey  in  Bills  of 
the  Old  Emission  Monej'  before  the  year  1781,  upon  the  Question 
in  the  said  Report,  whether  they  ought  not  to  receive  their  Pre- 
miums in  the  same  Money 

Voted,  that  the  Gentlemen 
The  Selectmen 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  the  Honble-  John  Pitts  Esq1. 
Mr.  John  Winthrop 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr.  —  excused 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  considering  the  1'.  Paragraph  of  the  foregoing 
Report  to  Report  as  soon  as  may  be 

Voted,  That  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  publish  an 
Advertizement  desiring  all  Persons  who  are  possessed  of  Notes 
of  the  late  Treasurer  to  bring  them  in  to  the  present  Treasurer  to 
be  liquidated  agreeable  to  the  Scale  of  depreciation  fixed  by  the 
Goverment  of  this  Commonwealth 

Voted,  that  the  Treasurer  give  new  Notes  for  the  Amount  in 
Specie  one  for  the  Principal  &  another  for  the  Interest  to  those 
who  desire  it  &  expect  to  receive  the  Interest  out  of  the  Money 
now  due  from  the  Collectors 

[109.]  Voted,  that  these  Notes  be  all  Numbered,  those  for 
principal  &  those  for  Interest  both  to  begin  at  N°:  one,  those  for 
the  Interest  to  be  paid  before  those  for  the  Principal,  when  there 
is  not  sufficient  in  the  Treasurey  to  pay  both,  &  in  Order  to  induce 
Persons  to  bring  in  their  Notes,  those  that  bring  in  first  to  be  paid 
first  &  so  in  course  as  they  are  Numbered 

Voted,  that  all  the  Small  Notes  &  Balances  remaining  unpaid 
on  any  drafts  which  are  to  be  taken  by  the  Collectors  in  payment 
of  Taxes  to  be  liquidated  &  the  Sum  to  be  paid  indorsed  on  the 
back  of  the  Notes  or  an  Order  drawn  on  the  Collectors  for  the 
Amount  or  endorsed  on  the  Proprietors  Rate  Bill 

Voted,  that  the  Collectors  be  directed  not  to  receive  any  Notes 
or  Orders  in  payment  of  Taxes  except  they  are  endorsed  by 
Treasurer  Boyer  and  that  they  be  enjoined  to  Collect  &  pay  into 
the  Treasurey  the  remainder  of  all  the  Taxes  committed  to  them 
without  delay 


Boston   Town   Eecords,  1782.  253 

Voted,  that  the  Treasurer  be  directed  in  Case  any  of  the  Col- 
lectors Neglect  to  pay  in  the  Taxes  after  the  time  limitted  by  Law 
to  put  the  Bonds  of  such  delinquent  Collectors  in  suit 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  not  to  make  an\T 
drafts  on  the  Treasurer  to  be  paid  out  of  the  Money  now  Collect- 
ing except  for  the  pay  of  the  Watchmen  [110.]  which  Money 
being  granted  to  pay  Off  the  Notes  for  Money  borrowed  on  the 
Credit  of  Those  very  Taxes  &  the  Drafts  of  the  two  last  years ; 
cannot  be  apply'd  to  any  other  Use 

Voted,  that  in  all  things  future  contracts  &  Drafts  on  the  Treas- 
urey  they  direct  the  payment  to  be  made  out  of  the  Taxes  granted 
for  that  purpose  of  defraying  the  charges  of  the  ensuing  year 
when  the  same  is  Collected  and  to  continue  the  practice  from  year 
to  year 

Voted,  that  the  Treasurer  be  directed  not  to  sell  any  more  new 
Emission  Money  excepting  what  may  be  necessary  for  the  pay- 
ment of  the  Watchmen  Unless  he  Obtain  one  for  two 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of  the  Report 
aforesaid  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  next  10.  O'Clock  Forenoon 

Fryday  the  17th  Day  of  May  A.D  1782  — Met  according  to 
Adjournment  at  the  Representatives  Chamber  iO.  OClock.  Fore 
Noon 

Mr.  Adams  in  the  Chair 

Mr.  Walley  and  others  the  Committee  appointed  b}T  the  Town 
to  contract  for  the  Towns  proportion  of  Beef  for  the  Continental 
Army  —  Reported 

That  they  had  procured  the  quantity  which  had  been  wanted,  & 
laid  before  the  Town  an  Account  thereof  Specefying  the  par- 
ticular [111.]  quantities  &  the  Prices  on  which  they  were  con- 
tracted for ;  whereby  it  appeared  that  a  considerable  saving  had 
been  made  by  the  Committee  and  that  the  Balance  still  due  to 
Oliver  Phelps  Esqr.  the  Super  Intend4:  of  Purchases,  the  Person 
with  whom  they  contracted  for  the  Beef,  is  Two  hundred  and 
forty  eight  Pounds  nine  Shillings  and  nine  pence  —  whereupon 

Moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby 
are  given  to  the  aforesaid  Committee  for  their  good  services  and 
the  considerable  savings  they  had  made  for  the  Town  in  said  Con- 
tract 

Moved,  that  the  several  Collectors  be  directed  to  lay  before 
the  Town  a  List  of  the  Names  of  all  such  Persons  as  are  indebted 
for  the  Beef  Tax  ;  and  that  the  Town  make  an  Adjournment  of 
this  Meeting  to  receive  the  same  —  the  Question  being  accord- 
ingly put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  Assessors  be  requested  to  attend 
the  Town  Meeting,  and  give  information  with  respect  to  the 
Abatements  they  have  made 

The  Town  Clerk  was  called  upon  to  lay  before  the  Town  the 
Vote  passed  the  last  year  Respecting  the  Abatements  to  be  made 
which  was  accordingly  done 

The  Moderator  having  left  the  Chair  and  taken  a  Seat 


254  City  Document  No.  80. 

[112.]     The  Selectmen  again  presided 

A  Letter  from  Stephen  Higginson  Esqr.  chosen  to  Represent  the 
Town  in  the  General  Court  the  ensuing  Year  was  Laid  before  the 
Town,  in  which  Letter  he  expresses  his  hopes  that  the  Town  will 
for  the  reasons  he  has  given  accept  of  his  resignation  of  the  Trust 
they  had  again  reposed  in  him,  —  It  was  thereupon  moved  and 
the  Question  accordingly  put  —  Whether  the  Town  will  accept  of 
Mr.  Higgiusons  resignation,  and  Assign  a  time  for  coming  to  the 
choice  of  another  Representative  in  his  room  —  which  passed  in 
the  Affermative 

As  the  Town  were  informed,  that  another  resignation  would  be 
laid  before  them  in  a  short  time  —  the  Assigning  a  time  was  post- 
poned for  the  present 

Mr.  Adams  again  took  the  Chair 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  for  Auditing  Town  Treasurers 
Accompts,  again  read,  and  after  some  debate  it  was  moved  & 
carried  that  the  debate  set  aside  for  the  present 

The  Assessors  Reported  in  writing,  that  the  Tax  N°:  11 
Amounted  to  £30,981-5-5  on  which  they  had  made  Abatements 
the  Sum  of  £1233-6-7 

That  the  12th.  or  last  Tax  amounted  to  £24,858-7-10  —  on 
which  they  had  made  Abatements  the  Sum  of  £331-16-6,  where- 
upon it  was  moved 

That  the  Assessors  be  directed  to  proceed  immediatley  with  all 
the  Abatements  that  are  to  be  made  on  the  two  last  Taxes  Agree- 
able to  the  Vote  of  the  Town  —  And  that  the  Collectors  be  directed 
to  bring  every  thing  that  is  to  come  to  their  Credit  [113.]  into  the 
Treasurey,  that  so  the  Town  may  know  at  the  Adjournment  of 
this  Meeting,  what  Monies  remaine  in  the  hands  of  the  Col- 
lectors 

The  Moderator  having  again  left  the  Chair  and  taken  a  Seat 
The  Selectmen  presided 

Mr.  Jarvis  having  by  a  Letter  laid  before  the  Town  resigned 
the  Trust  of  a  Representative,  into  which  he  had  been  chosen  for 
the  ensuing  Year 

It  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  Five   OClock  this  Evening  be 
Assigned,  for  coming  to  the  choice  of  two  Representatives  in  the 
room  of  Mr.  Higginson  and  Mr.  Jarvis  who  have  resigned 
Mr.  Adams  in  the  Chair 

Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall  be  to  3. 
OClock  Afternoon  then  to  Meet  at  the  Representatives  Chamber 
Adjourned  accordingly 

3.  OClock  P:  M:    Met  according  to  Adjournment 
Mr.  Adams  in  the  Chair 

The  Report  of  the  Committee  to  Audit  the  Town  Treasurers 
Accompts,  again  taken  up,  whereupon  Moved,  That  a  Committee 
be  Appointed  to  examine  the  Assessors  Books  to  know  on  what 
principles  they  proceed  in  apportioning  the  Taxes  on  the  Inhabi- 
tants —  what  proportion  the  Real  Estate  bears  to  the  Personal 
Estate  &  Faculty  in  order  to  raise  the  Sum  to  be  Assessed  — 
[114.]  The  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affermative 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  255 

Voted,  that  Samuel  Broom  Esqr.  excused 
Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
Mr.  Herman  Brimer 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  what  will  be  the  Sum 
proper  to  be  raised  by  a  Tax  on  Polls  &  Estates  be  postponed  till 
the  Adjournment  — 

On  the  consideration  of  the  last  Clause  in  the   Report  of  the 
Committee  to  Audit  the  Town  Treasurers  Accounts 
Voted,  that  Cap'.   Isaac  Phillips 

Thomas  Melvill  —  excused 
Mr.  Elisha  Sigourney 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  said   Clause  and  Report  as  soon  as 
may  be  — 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  here- 
by are  given  to  Edward  Payne  Esqr.  and  others  the  Committee  for 
Auditing  the  Accounts  of  the  Town  Treasurer,  for  the  Time  they 
have  generously  spent  in  the  business  &  their  Assiduety  in  pre- 
paring said  Report  —  And  the  Committee  have  leave  to  Report 
further  — 

Adjourned  to  6  O'Clock  in  the  Evening 

Selectmen  presided  — 

This  being  the  Time  Assigned  for  the  choice  of  [115.]  Two 
Representatives  —  The  Inhabitants  were  directed  by  the  Select- 
men to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  Two  Representa- 
tives ;  and  then  it  was  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes 
will  be  received  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  &  on  one  piece  of 
Paper,  and  that  such  of  the  Inhabitants  as  give  in  their  Votes  at 
the  Door,  must  enter  the  Hall,  and  that  they  propose  the  Poll  to  be 
closed  at  6.  O'Clock  — 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  accordingly  the  number  of  the 
Same  were  found  to  be  One  hundred  sixty  seven ;  and  upon 
sorting  them  it  appear'd  that  the  two  following  Persons  were 
chosen  —  Viz1. 

Honble.  James  Bowdoin  Esqr. 
Honble.  William  Phillips  Esq1". 
Mr.  Adams  in  the  Chair 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  the  aforementioned  — 

The  Committee  to  consider  what  Steps  shall  be  taken  for  set- 
tling with  the  Board  of  War  &c. 
Reported  verbally  — 

On  a  Motion,  Voted  that  the  aforementioned  Committee  be  re- 
quested to  reduce  their  Report  to  Writing 

Major  Melvill  having  desired  that  he  might  be  excused  from 
serving  on  the  Committee  with  Cap*.  Phillips  &  others  he  was  ac- 
cordingly excused 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Joseph  Peirce  be  added  to  the  said  Committee 
in  the  room  of  Major  Melvill 

[116.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz'.  "To  consider  and 
determine  relating  to  the  Premium  due  to  the  severall  Collectors  of 
Taxes  on  the  Taxes  by  them  Collected  and  paid  into  the  several " 


256  City  Document  No.  80. 

Treasurers  —  was  read   whereupon  Voted,   that  a  Committee   be 
appointed  to  take  said  Article  into  consideration  —  Confer  with 
the  Collectors  &  Report  what  is  proper  to  be  done  — 
Voted,  that  M1.  John  Coffin  Jones 

Mr.  Thomas  W  alley  excused 

Mr.  Joseph  Russell 

M1.  Joseph  Barrell  excused 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  excused 

Robert  T.  Payne  Esqr.  excused 

Samuel  Broom  Esqr.  excused 

Timothy  Newell  Esq'", 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  John  Lucas  Esqr.  be  added  to  the  Committee  for 
Examining  the  Assessors  Books,  &  in  the  room  of  Samuel  Broom 
Esqr.  who  has  been  excused  from  serving  — 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  late  Town  Treasurer  David  Jeffries 
be  and  hereby  is  required  to  deliver  over  the  Books,  Papers, 
Moneys  and  all  other  Matters,  and  Things  appertaining  to  the 
Office  of  Town  Treasurer  unto 

Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
William  Powell  Esqr. 
Mr.  Hermon  Brimmer 
who  are  hereby  impowered  to  receive  the  same  and  give  Receipts 
for  such  Monies  and  other  things  [117.]  as  they  may  receive  — 
and  the  said  Committee  are  hereby  directed  to  lodge  the  same  in 
the  Office  of  Mr.  Treasurer  Peter  Boyer  taking  his  Receipt  therefor, 
and  lodging  the  said  Receipt  in  the  hands  of  the  Selectmen  — 
The  Selectmen  presided 

The  Honble.  James  Bowdoin  Esqr.  chosen  one  of  the  Represent- 
atives ;  informs  the  Town,  that  he  declines  accepting  that  trust  as 
by  his  Letter  on  file 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned   to  to  Morrow  Morning 
Eleven  O. Clock,  for  the  choice  of  a  Representative  in  the  room  of 
Mr.  Bowdoin  who  has  resigned  —  and  the  Selectmen  propose  the 
Poll  to  be  closed  at  12.  O'Clock 
Mr.  Adams  in  the  Chair 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next.  10. 
OClock  in  the  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  — -, 

The  Selectmen  preside  — 

Saturday  May  18th.  11'  O'Clock  Met  according  to  Adjournment 
This  was  the  time  Assigned  for  the  choice  of  one  Representative, 
but  a  Letter  having  been  received  from  the  Houble.  James  Lovell 
Esq1",  acquainting  the  Town,  that  he  could  not  accept  the  Choice 
they  had  mode  of  him  for  one  of  their  Representatives  in  the  Gen- 
eral Court —  A  Motion  was  made  —  That  the  [118.]  Vote  of 
yesterday  for  coming  to  the  choice  of  one  Representative  in  the 
room  of  Mr.  Bowdoin  at  this  Time,  be  reconsidered,  &  that  the 
Town  now  determine  not  to  make  choice  of  any  Other  Persons  as 
Representatives  in  the  room  of  those  who  have  declined  serving 
—  this  Motion  was  withdrawn  and  it  was  then  Moved  and  Voted, 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  257 

that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  half  past  12.  O. Clock,  for  the 
choice  of  two  Representatives  in  the  room  of  the  Honble.  James 
Bowdoin  Esqr.  and  the  Honble.  James  Lovel  Esq1',  who  have  re- 
signed — 

Half  past  12.  O'Clock.  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

This  being  the  time  Assigned  by  the  Selectmen  for  the  choice 
of  two  Representatives  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Bowdoin  and  Mr.  Lovel 
who  have  declined  serving  —  The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to 
withdraw,  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  two  Representatives  and 
then  it  was  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes  will  be  re- 
ceived, but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  on  one  piece  of  Paper  and 
that  such  of  the  Inhabitants  as  give  in  their  Votes  at  the  Door, 
must  then  enter  the  Hall,  and  that  they  propose  the  Poll  to  be 
closed  before  One  O'Clock  — 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  accordingly  the  Number  of  the 
same  were  found  to  be,  One  hundred  &  fifty  three  and  upon  sort- 
ing them  it  appeared,  that  only  one  Person  was  chosen  —  Viz*. 

[119.]  Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 

The  Inhabitants  after  the  choice  had  been  declared  by  the 
Selectmen  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes,  for 
one  Representative  —  and  the  same  declaration  was  made  by  the 
Selectmen  with  respect  to  receiving  the  Votes  &c.  as  had  been 
macle"previous  to  the  last  choice  — 

The  Inhabitants  having  withdrawn  and  brought  in  their  Votes 
Accordingly  the  Number  of  the  Votes  were  found  to  be  Ninety 
five,  but  upon  sorting  them  it  appeared,  that,  no  one  Person  Voted 
for  had  Obtained  a  Majority  of  said  Votes 

It  was  then  moved  and  seconded  that  the  Vote  passed  the  first 
of  this  meeting  for  the  Choice  of  Seven  Persons  to  Represent  the 
Town  in  the  next  General  Court  be  now  reconsidered,  and  that  no 
other  Person  be  chosen  in  addition  to  the  Six  G-entelmen  already 
chosen  After  some  debate  —  the  Question  was  accordingly  put  — 
Passed  in  the  Negative  — 

Moved  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  6.  O'Clock  in  the 
Evening  for  the  choice  of  one  Representative  — 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  — 

6.  O'Clock  Afternoon  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

[120.]  This  being  the  time  Assigned  by  the  Selectmen  for 
the  choice  of  one  Representative  still  wanting  to  com  pleat  the  num- 
ber the  Town  have  Voted  to  send 

The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly  directed  to  withdraw  and 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  one  Representative  ;  and  then  it  was  de- 
clared by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes  will  be  received  but  such  as 
are  unfolded,  and  on  one  piece  of  Paper,  and  that  such  of  the 
Inhabitants  as  give  in  their  Votes  at  the  Door  must  enter  the  Hall 
—  and  that  they  propose  to  close  the  Poll  at  Seven  O'Clock  in  the 
Evening 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  accordingly  the  number  of  the 
same  were  found  to  be  One  hundred  and  thirty  seven,  and  upon 
sorting  them  it  appeared  —  that 


258  City  Document  No.   80. 

Nathan  Frazier  Esqr. 
was  chosen 

Wednesday  the  22d.  Day  of  May  10.  O'Clock  in  the  Forenoon, 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

M1'.  Adams  in  the  Chair 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  to  Act  upon  the 
List  of  Jurors 

The  Committee  to  consider  what  Steps  shall  be  taken  for  set- 
tling with  the  Board  of  War,  their  demands  on  the  Town  for 
Small  Arms  &c  [121.]  Beg  leave  to  report,  that  having  made 
due  examination  and  enquirey  with  respect  to  the  Sundrys  charged 
by  the  Board  of  War  to  the  Selectmen  they  apprehend  that  the  1st. 
Article  amounting  to  £21-9-5  —  was  for  repairs  of  the  State 
Hospital,  though  they  cannot  find  by  whose  order  it  was  delivered 
The  2d.  Article  delivered  for  use  of  Hospital  Boat- 

to 

3d.  Article  —  for  use  of   State  Hospital  by  order  of 

Council  dated  19th.  Septf.  1777     ----- 

4  th.  Article  for  use  of  Hospital  Boat  Amo'g  to     - 

5  th.  Article  -  -  -  -  for  State  Hospital  -  -  - 
6th.  Article  for  20  —  Load  for  Town  of  Boston  -  - 
7th.  Article  delivd.  J  Scolly  Esqr.  by  the  Verbal  order 

of  the  Honble.  Benja.  Austin  Esqr.  for  Hospital     - 
8th.  Article  delivered  J  Scolly  Esqr.  by  Order  of  Court ) 

dated  Octr.  12th.  1778  for  the  Sick  at  the  Hospital  j 
9th.  Article  —  delivd.  J  Scollav  for  Hospital  Boat  by  \  rq  _  i  q     ^i 

Order  of  Council  dated  Novr.  6.  1778  -  -  -  -  j  "  y  ~  '2~ 
10th.  Article  —  delivd.  N.    Frazier  Esqr.  for  a  Sickl 

Negro  at  the  Hospital  by  Order  of  Council  Jauy.  >-  14-6 

19th.  1 780 ) 

11th.  Article  delivd.  J  Scollay  Esqr.  for  Hospital  Boat  j  qq       o  _  qi 

by  order  of  Council  Jan*.  19.  1780 j  y6       l     ** 

That  the  500  bushells  Corn  charged  as  delivered  Wm.  Phillips 
Esqr:  the  Overseers  are  to  account  for,  As  also  for  the  200  bushels 
delivered  the  Selectmen  which  by  an  Order  of  Court  Octr.  12th.  1778 
was  to  be  considered  as  so  much  paid  towards  defraying  the 
Charges  of  the  State  Poor 

[122.]  The  small  arms  &c  charged  the  Militia  of  the  Town 
of  Boston,  were  received  by  Col0.  Proctor  and  by  him  delivered  to 
the  several  Captains  of  his  Regiment,  to  be  put  into  the  hands  of 
those  persons  in  their  respective  Companies  who  were  not  able  to 
Purchase  them 

The  Committee  are  of  Opinion  that  the  final  Adjustment  of 
the  Account  of  it,  Lays  with  the  Selectmen,  and  that  they  should 
be  directed  to  proceed  in  that  Buissiness  as  soon  as  may  be 
And  if  any  difficulty  should  Arise  that  they  take  the  Sence  of 
the  General  Court 

Thomas  Melvill  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered,  the 
Question  was  put  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted — Passed 
iu  the  Affennative 


-  amounting 

£8- 

5- 

10 

37- 

•    2  - 

■    1 

12- 

■10- 

10 

15- 

■    1- 

■    7 

80- 

■    0- 

■    0 

17- 

10 

30- 

13- 

5 

Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  259 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  Col0.  Proctor  be  directed  to  Collect  all  the 
Cartridges  which  have  been  placed  by  him  in  the  hands  of  his 
Officers  to  be  used  when  occasion  required  it  —  the  same  to  be 
delivered  in  to  the  Selectmen 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Procter  be  directed  to  Collect  all  the  small 
Arms  and  Accoutrements  received  from  the  Board  of  War,  that 
are  now  in  the  hands  of  the  Captains  of  his  Regiment  —  the  same 
to  be  returned  to  the  Selectmen  and  also  to  enquire  what  has 
become  of  such  as  shall  not  be  returned 

[123.]  The  Committee  Appointed  to  Audit  the  Town  Treas- 
urers Account  Report  further 

Whereas  the  Town  has  been  pleased  to  Accept  the  first  report 
of  said  Committee  &  the  Regulations  therein  proposed  have  been 
unanimously  Voted,  they  propose  that  those  regulations  should 
be  published  for  the  information  of  the  Inhabitants 

2dly.  And  in  order  to  compleat  the  plan  therein  proposed,  it 
will  be  necessary  the  real  Estate  of  the  Treasury  should  be 
assertained  &  every  Article  of  Debts,  &  Credits,  Adjusted, 
that  the  Treasurer  may  know  how  to  proceed  in  paying  Off  the 
several  Demands  on  the  Town 

3dly.  It  is  therefore  proposed  that  the  Committee  Appointed  to 
enquire  into  the  expenditure  of  Moneys  received  out  of  the 
Treasurey,  &  the  Demands  of  the  Board  of  War  for  Arms  &c  be 
desired  to  report  as  soon  as  possible  and  in  case  it  appears  by 
their  report  there  is  Money  due  either  from  the  Officers  of  Militia 
or  any  other  Persons  for  Arms  &c  received  &  not  returned,  or 
from  those  who  received  Money  out  of  the  Treasury,  or  from  any 
other  Person  indebted  to  the  Town  that  the  Treasurer  be  directed 
to  demand  the  same  immediately 

That  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  settle  the  Accounts  exhibited 
by  the  Board  of  War  &  report  what  may  be  due  After  deducting 
the  Supplys  for  the  Hospital  &  the  Amount  of  the  Arms  belong- 
ing to  the  Inhabitants  which  the  State  took  into  their  possession  & 
Apply'd  to  the  Use  of  the  Army  Aftei  the  Enemy  left  the  Town 

[124.]  That  they  procure  payment  from  the  State  for 
Cloathing  &c  supply'd  for  the  use  of  the  Army  by  order  of  the 
General  Assembly  and  likewise  the  Supplys  to  Soldiers  Familys 
—  4thy.  The  That  Representatives  of  the  Town  be  &  hereby  are 
instructed  to  see  that  the  Town  has  Credit  for  what  may  be  due 
to  them  on  Account  of  the  Bounty  for  raising  Men  for  the  Army 
in  1780.  and  also  on  Account  of  Clothing  &  any  other  Supplies 
for  the  Army  &  the  Selectmen  are  desired  to  furnish  them  with 
the  Necessary  documents  if  it  has  not  already  been  deducted  out 
of  their  proportion  of  the  State  Tax  —  All  which  is  Submitted  to 
the  Consideration  of  the  Town 

Edward  Payne  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  was  considered  by  Paragraphs,  and 
accepted 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  enquire  what 
has  become  of  the  Arms  which  were  lodged  in  Faneiuel  Hall  in 
1774  and  Report  to  the  Town 


2 GO  City  Document  No.   80. 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose 
aforesaid 

Moved  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  publish  in  hand  Bills 
the  Regulations  which  the  Town  came  into  the  15th.  Ins4,  in  con- 
sequence of  a  Report  of  the  Committee  appointed  to  Audit  [125.] 
the  Town  Treasurers  Accompts  and  to  take  orders  that  the  same 
be  delivered  to  the  several  Freeholders  and  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  —  and  the  Question  being  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  call 
upon  Cap1.  John  Simkins  for  an  Adjustment  of  the  Accompts  for 
the  Supplies  of  the  Soldiers  Familys  ;  and  to  receive  any  Moneys 
that  may  be  due  thereon 

Voted,  that  the  Representatives  of  the  Town  be  and  they  hereby 
are  Instructed  to  see  that  the  Town  have  Credit  for  what  may  be  due 
to  them  on  Account  of  the  Bounty  for  raising  Men  for  the  Army 
in  1780  —  and  also  on  Account  of  Clothing  and  any  other  Sup- 
plies for  the  Army  and  the  Selectmen  are  directed  to  furnish  them 
with  the  necessary  documents,  if  it  has  not  already  been  deducted 
out  of  their  proportion  of  the  State  Tax 

The  Committee  to  whom  by  a  Vote  of  the  Town  on  the  17th. 
Ins':  was  refered  to  the  Consideration  of  the  Demands  of  the 
Collectors  for  their  premeium  on  the  Taxes  by  them  paid  to  the 
Several  Treasurers  —  Report  that  having  considered  with  the  Col 
lectors  on  the  Subject  &  examined  the  resolutions  of  the  Town 
relating  thereto,  they  are  of  Opinion  that  the  Collectors  are  entitled 
for  the  year  1777  to  a  premium  of  Seven  &  half  p  Cent  for  the 
Money  they  paid  within  four  Months,  [126]  five  p  Cent  for  what 
they  paid  within  twelve  Months  on  Account  of  the  Tax  for  that 
year,  from  the  time  of  its  being  committed  to  them 

That  for  all  the  Subsiquent  faxes  in  1778.  1779  &  1780.  they  be 
allowed  five  p  Cent  on  all  payments  they  have  made  within  four 
Months  three  &  |  p  Cent  on  all  payments  made  within  Eight 
Months,  &  two  &  half  p  Cent  on  all  payments  made  within  twelve 
months  from  the  time  of  their  being  committed  to  them  &  that 
for  the  payments  not  made  within  twelve  Months  they  are  not 
intitled  to  a  premium  —  That  the  several  Collectors  be  directed 
to  exhibit  their  Accounts  conformable  thereto  as  soon  as  may  be 
for  a  Settlement 

John  Coffin  Jones 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted — Passed 
in  the  Affermative 

The  Selectmen  a  Committee  to  confer  with  the  Collectors  rela- 
tive to  the  Moneys  paid  into  the  Treasury  in  Bills  of  the  Old 
Emission  Money  before  the  year  1781  —  upon  the  Question  in 
said  Report  Viz1.  —  Whether  they  ought  not  to  receive  their  Pre- 
mium in  said  Money  Reported 

That  in  their  Opinion  the  Collectors  ought  not  to  receive  their 
Premium  in  Bills  of  the  Old  Emission 

[127»]  The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  con- 
sidered—  the  Question  was  put — Whether  the  same  shall  be 
accepted  passed  in  the  Affermative 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  261 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  the  1st.  Paragraph  of  the 
Report  of  the  Committee  to  Audit  Town  Treasurers  Accompts, 
Reported  Verbally  and  in  part  —  and  Asked  leave  to  Report  again 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed  to  call 
upon  Col0.  Proctor  to  account  for  the  Monies  put  into  his  hands 
for  the  purpose  of  raising  two  hundrded  and  Sixty  four  Men 
in  1780 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Five  thousand  Pounds  in  Silver  &  Gold 
be  raised  by  a  Tax  upon  the  Polls  and  Rateable  Estates  of  the 
Inhabitants  of  this  Town  in  order  to  defrey  the  necessary 
Expences  of  the  ensuing  Year 

Moved,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  directed 
to  Issue  Writs  of  Distress  on  all  the  Collectors  who  are  deficient 
in  paying  in  the  Tax,  called  the  Beef  Tax,  on  or  before  the  1st. 
Day  of  July  next  —  and  the  Question  being  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affermative 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  &  Things  which  remain  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting  be  referred  for  consideration,  to  the  next  General 
Town  Meeting  that  shall  be  called 

[128.]  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby 
are  given  to  the  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of 
this  Meeting  for  his  good  services  as  Moderator 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  dessolved 

And  it  was  accordingly  dessolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned,  in  public 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  18th. 
Day  of  June  Anno  Domini  1782.  3.  O. Clock  P:  M: 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Moderator  for  this  Meeting  be  chosen 
by  a  Hand  Vote 

PLzekiel  Price  Esq1", 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  the  Meeting  accordingly 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.  "  To  consider  and  determine 
whether  the  Town  will  choose  Collectors  of  Taxes  in  the  room  of 
those  chosen  last  March  Meeting,  they  not  being  eligible  accord- 
ing to  a  Vote  of  the  Town  passed  the  15th.  Day  of  March  last,  or 
reconsider  said  Vote  "  :  —  was  read,  and  after  debate  had  thereon 
—  It  was  moved,  [129.]  that  the  Question  be  now  put,  Viz'. 
Whether  the  Town  will  proceed  to  the  choice  of  new  Collectors  of 
Taxes,  in  the  room  of  those  chosen  last  March  Meeting,  they  not 
having  as  yet  complied  with  the  Vote  of  the  Town  passed  the 
15th.  of  March  last  in  order  to  their  having  the  new  Tax  Books 
committed  to  them 

And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affirmative 

It  was  then  moved,  and  Voted,  that  there  shall  be  four  Collec- 
tors of  Taxes  chosen  in  the  room  of  those  Persons  chosen 
Collectors  at  the  March  Meeting  —  and  the  Question  being  accord- 
ingly put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 


262  City  Document  No.  80. 

It  was  then  moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  choice  of  Collectors  of 
Taxes  be  referred  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

The  Petition  of  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  praying  "  that  they 
ma}7  have  sundry  Abatements  made  them  of  the  Tax  committed  to 
them  to  Collect  of  the  Inhabitants  in  September  1781  "  —  was  — 
read  after  debate  had  thereon  it  was  moved,  That  the  Assessors 
be  permitted  to  set  two  "Weeks,  from  this  Day,  for  the  Abatement 
of  such  Taxes  on  the  Tax  N°:  11  and  12.  as  they  shall  Judge  to  be 
reasonable  —  and  that  they  be  directed  to  take  a  list  of  the 
Names  of  the  Persons  and  their  Taxes,  which  Taxes  could  not  be 
Collected,  by  reason  of  Persons  being  Absent,  or  other  Necessary 
Causes;  [130.]  and  that  they  lay- the  same  before  the  Town  at 
the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting ;  any  former  Vote  to  the  contrary 
notwithstanding 

And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Af- 
fermative 

It  was  moved,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  to  Morrow 
fortnight  being  the  third  Day  of  July  next.  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon  — 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Wednesday  the  third  Day  of  July  Anno  Domini  1782  —  3. 
O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon  —  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Town  now  come  to  the  choice  of 
two  Persons  as  Clerks  of  the  Market  in  the  room  of  two  others 
chosen  into  that  Office  at  the  March  Meeting 

Mr.  James  White  was  chosen  a  Clerk  of  the  Market  for  the  en- 
suing Year,  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Conent  who  is  abroad 

Mr.  Samuel  Smith  was  chosen  a  Clerk  of  the  Market  for  the 
Year  ensuing  in  the  room  of  Mr.  Frazier  who  has  gone  abroad 

The  Assessors  agreable  to  a  Vote  of  the  Town  passed  the  18th. ' 
Day  of  June  last  —  permitting  them  to  set  two  Weeks,  from  that 
Day  [131.]  for  the  Abatement  of  such  Taxes  on  the  Tax  N°.  11. 
and  12th.  as  they  shall  Judge  to  be  reasonable  &c.  laid  before  the 
Inhabitants  a  List  of  the  Names  of  the  Persons  and  Taxes  which 
could  not  be  Collected  on  the  Tax  N°.  11  and  12  —  by  reason  of 
Persons  being  absent  or  other  necessary  Causes 

Moved,  that  the  Town  now  come  to  the  choice  of  four  Collectors 
of  Taxes  Agreeable  to  a  Vote  passed  at  the  late  Meeting —  And 
the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  four  Collectors  of  Taxes,  and  the  same  being  brought  in 
:un  1  sorted,  &  before  the  Vote  was  declared,  a  Motion  was  made 
that  the  Votes  passed  by  the  Town  the  15th.  Day  of  March  last 
relative  to  Collectors  and  the  Subsequent  Vote  in  consequence 
thereof  which  was  also  passed  by  the  Town  on  the  eighteenth 
Day  of  June  last  be  now  reconsidered  —  And  the  Question  being 
accordingly  put —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

M'.  Benjamin  Sumner  Junr.  one  of  the  Collectors  of  Taxes 
chosen  in  March  last  appeared,  and  prayed  the  Town  that  he  may 
be  excused  from  serving  in  that  Office  the  present  Year  —  and  the 
Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  made — Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Ad- 
journed, it  shall  bo  to  Fryday  Next  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 


Boston   Town   Records,    1782.  263 

[132.]  On  a  Motion  made  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  and 
hereby  are  impowered  and  directed,  to  allow  Mr.  Isaac  Warren  In- 
terest on  the  Money  advanced  by  him  for  the  Town  on  furnishing 
and  procuring  Shoes  for  the  Continental  Army  ;  from  the  time  it 
became  due 

Adjourned  to  Fryday  the  5  Day  of  July  Instant,  3.  O'Clock 
afternoon  then  to  meet  in  this  place 

Fryday  the  5th.  Day  of  July.  8  O:  Clock  Afternoon,  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Persons  chosen  Collectors  of  Taxes 
at  the  March  Meeting,  be  called  upon  to  acquaint  the  Town 
whether  they  would  serve  in  that  Office  the  Year  ensuing 

Francis  Shaw  Esqr.  one  of  the  Collectors  appeared,  and  being 
called  upon,  acquainted  the  Town,  that  he  declined  serving  in  that 
Office  the  present  Year,  and  prayed  that  his  resignation  might  be 
accepted  by  the  Town  for  the  reasons  he  had  offered  —  The  Ques- 
tion being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Mr.  James  Thompson  another  of  the  Collectors  being  present, 
was  called  upon,  when  he  informed  the  Town,  that  he  declines 
serving  in  that  Office  the  present  Year,  for  reasons  by  him  offered  ; 
and  prayed  that  his  refusal  might  be  accepted  by  the  Town 

[133.]  The  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affirmative 

Mr.  James  Bayley  the  other  Collector  of  Taxes  appeared,  and 
also  declined  serving  in  that  Office  the  present  Year,  —  and  prayed 
that  the  Town  would  accept  his  excuse,  for  the  reasons  he  had 
given  ;  and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affermative 

The  Committee  upon  the  Petition  and  Memorial  of  Mr.  Samuel 
Ruggles,  respecting  the  Debt  due  from  Mr.  Holeyday  a  late  Col- 
lector, having  examined  the  Papers  are  of  Opinion 

That  the  Assessors  be  directed  immediately  to  Abate  the  Taxes 
of  such  Persons  on  said  Holeydays  List,  as  have  been  reduced  by 
means  of  the  War,  and  who  are  still  unable  to  pay,  and  the  Taxes 
of  those  who  have  died,  or  joined  the  Enemy  and  left  no  Estate  ; 
provided  they  are  satisfied  that  such  Taxes  were  not  lost  by  the 
negligence  or  undue  leinety  of  the  said  Collectors  —  and  that 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr.  as  Administrator  of  the  Estate  of  said 
Holleyday  be  impowered  and  enjoined  to  Collect  and  pay,  or  give 
his  Obligation  to  pay,  the  then  remaining  balance  into  the  Treas- 
urey  of  this  Town,  within  the  space  of  six  Months  from  the  time 
the  Assessors  shall  determine  the  Abatements  upon  which  the 
Bonds  of  the  said  Hollyday  to  be  discharged 

Ebenezer  Hancock  p  Order. 

[134.]  The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  consid- 
ered —  the  Question  was  put  Viz'.  Whether  the  same  shall  be  ac- 
cepted —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion  made.  Voted,  unanimously,  that  the  Thanks  of 
the  Town  be  and  hereby  are  given  to  Mr.  Christopher  Clark,  for 
his  generous  Donation  of  a  Bell  for  the  use  of  one  of  the  publick 
Schools  in  this  Town 


264  City  Document  No.  80. 

Moved  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall  be  to  Mon- 
day next  5  OClock.  P:  M: 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  July  8th  Five  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon  —  Met  accord- 
ing to  Adjournment 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Town  now  come  to  the  choice  of  four 
Collectors  of  Taxes 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  then- 
Votes  for  four  Collectors  of  Taxes — and  the  same  having  been 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 
Messrs :  Thomas  Bayley 
Charles  Williams 
Daniel  Parker 
William  Fallass 
[135.]  were  chosen  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  the  year  ensuing. 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Vote  passed  at  a  late  Meeting, 
directing  the  Town  Treasurer  to  commence  a  Suit  against  the  Col- 
lectors of  Taxes  for  the  Beef  Tax  so  called,  be  reconsidered 

And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affir- 
mative 

The  Committee  appointed  to  enquire  into  the  conduct  of  the 
Assessors  in  Apportioning  the  Taxes  on  the  Inhabitants,  what 
proportion  the  Real  Estate  bears  to  the  Personal,  and  how  the}r 
Estimated  the  Personal  Estate  and  Faculty,  in  order  to  raise  the 
Sum  to  be  Assessed,  having  attended  that  business  —  Report  as 
follows 

That  the  Estimates  made  by  the  Assessors  of  the  value  of  the 
Real  and  Personal  Estate  of  the  Inhabitants,  appears  to  be  nearly 
the  same,  with  the  Estimates,  made  by  the  General  Court,  on 
which  the  Towns  proportion  of  the  State  Tax  was  Assessed 

That  the  Income  of  the  Real  Estates  deducting  Repairs  amounts 
to  Upwards  of  Nine  thousand  Pounds,  and  the  Interest  on  the 
Personal  Estate  including  Money  on  hand  and  at  Interest,  Stock 
in  Trade,  Vessels  and  Income  by  Trade  and  Faculty  at  six  per 
cent  amounts  to  near  twenty  Six  thousand  Pounds  —  from  these  two 
Sums  [136.]  amounting  to  about  thirty  five  Thousand  Pounds, 
they  deduct  the  amount  of  the  Poll  Tax,  and  the  remainder 
is  the  Sum  on  which  the  12th.  Tax  is  apportioned  on  this  Sum 
the  Assessors  calculate,  how  much  in  the  Pound  will  raise  the 
Sum  to  be  Assessed ;  and  what  it  amounts  to  in  the  Pound  every 
Inhabitant  is  charged  on  the  amount  of  his  pellicular  Valuation, 
both  of  Real,  and  Personal  Estate  being  eight  Shillings  and  eight 
Pence  on  the  State  Tax,  and  four  Shillings  on  the  Town  and 
County 

In  the  Tax  now  coming  out  the  Income  of  the  Real  Estate 
amounts  to  ten  thousand  Nine  hundred  and  twenty  Six  pounds, 
mid  the  Personal  to  twenty  Thousand  five  hundred  ninety  four, 
and  turns  out  five  shillings,  and  eleven  pence  to  the  State 
Tax,   and  three  Shillings  and  five   Pence  to  the  Town 

But  the  Assessors  have  no  certain  Rule  by  which  they  Estimate 
the  Personal  Estate  of  the   most   part  of  the   Inhabitants  as  not 


Boston   Town   Records,    1782.  265 

more  than  one  hundred  and  twenty  Persons  have  given  in  Lists, 
the  remainder  being  nineteen  parts  out  of  twenty,  they  are  under 
a  necessity  of  dooming,  according  to  the  best  Information  they 
can  obtain,  which  no  doubt  is  often  erroneous,  and  must  occasion 
some  Individuals  to  be  taxed  more  and  less,  than  in  Justice  they 
ought  to  pay  ;  this  will  always  be  the  case  while  the  Inhabitants 
[137.]  are  doomed,  and  your  Committee  can  devise  no  remedy, 
unless  the  Inhabitants  in  general  can  be  prevailed  on  to  give  into 
the  Assessors,  true  Lists  of  all  their  Rateable  Estates 

Edward  Payne  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  —  Passed 
in  the  Affirmative 

Moved,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  directed,  in  case  the  late 
Collectors  do  not  pay  into  the  Treasury  their  respective  Ballances 
on  or  before  the  eight  Day  of  October  next,  to  put  the  Bonds  of 
such  delinquent  Collectors  in  Suit,  —  And  the  Question  being  ac- 
cordingly put  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  things  which  remain 
unfinished  at  this  Meeting,  be  referred  over  to  the  next  General 
Town  Meeting  that  shall  be  called 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and 
hereby  are  given  to  Ezekiel  Price  Esq1',  for  his  good  services  as 
Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting;-  was  dessolved 


[138.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in 
publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Fanuiel  Hall  the  25th  Day  of 
July,  Anno  Domini  1782.  3.  O'Clock.  P:  M: 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  — read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted  it  appeared  —  that 

Nathan  Frazier  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "To  consider  what  Measures 
shall  be  taken  to  Anticipate  the  payment  of  the  Continental  Taxes  ; 
and  to  Loan  such  further  Sums  of  Money  for,  a  few  Months  only 
as  their  respective  Circumstances  will  possibly  admit  of  ;  and 
such  other  Matters  as  are  earnestly  recomended,  by  the  General 
Assembly  in  their  Resolves  of  the  4th  and  5th  of  July  Instant"  — 
was  read  together  with  the  said  Resolves,  and  two  Circular  Letters, 
accompanying  them  whereupon 

Moved,  that  a  Committee  of  three  Persons  be  appointed  for 
each  Ward  in  the  Town,  to  wait  upon  the  Inhabitants  who 
[139.]  are  Taxed,  and  impress  upon  their  Minds,  the  Absolute 
necessity  of  the  immediate  payment  of  the  present  Tax.  — 

and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affermative 

Moved  that  a  Committee  of  twelve  Persons  be  appointed  and 


266 


City  Document  No.  80. 


that  they  be  directed  to  retire  into  the  Selectmens  Chamber,  and 
Report  Three  suitable  Persons  in  each  Ward  for  the  Above  Com- 
mittee —  and  the  Question  being  put  — ■  Passed  in  the  Affirmative 

—  also 

Ward 

Voted,  that  Mr.  John  R.   Sigorney        N°.  1 

Mr.  John  White  -----------     2 

Mr.  Daniel  Parker    ----------     3 

Edward  Proctor  Esqr.    --- 4 

Mr.  John  Larking    ----- 5 

John  Scollay  Esqr.    -- -6 

Major  Thomas  Melville 7 

Mr.  Jeremiah  Belknap -8 

Edward  Payne  Esqr. 9 

Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. -  10 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr.      -- 11 

Honble.  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 12 

be  a  Committee  for  said  Purpose 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz'.  "  To  consider  the  request  of  a 
Number  of  the  respectable  Inhabitants,  that  some  Measures  may 
be  taken  to  prevent  the  Alarming  Effects  of  a  Combination  of  the 
Bakers,  in  order  to  compel  the  Inhabitants  to  receive  Bread  on 
their  own  Terms"  — was  read  — and  after  some  debate  it  was 
moved  [140.]  and  carried ;  that  all  further  debate  on  this  matter 
subside  for  the  present 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it 
shall  be  to  this  Day  three  Weeks  in  order  to  receive  the  Report  of 
the  Collectors  of  Taxes 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Report  the  Names  of  three  Persons 
in  each  of  the  twelve  Wards  suitable  to  compose  the  Committee  of 
Thirty  six  to  wait  upon  the  Inhabitants  of  their  respective  Wards 
agreeable  to  a  foregoing  Vote  —  Reported  a  List  accordingly  — 
whereupon  the  following  Persons  were  chosen  for  said   Committee 

—  Viz4. 

Cap1.  William  Brown  ~)  Ward 

Cap'.  Silas  Atkins  I  N°.  1 

Deacon  Jonathan  Brown  ) 

Mr.  Alexander  Hill 
Mr.  Thomas  Vernon 
Abiel  Ruddock  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Eliot 
Mr.  Edward  Edes 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 
Alexander  Edwards 
Mr.  Samuel  Parkman 
Jonathan  Williams  Esqr. 
Deacon  William  Boardman 
Mr.  Thomas  Hitchbnrne 
[141.]         John  Coffin  Jones  Esqr. 

William  Greenleaf  Esqr.  N°.  6 

Mr.  Joseph  Hall 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  267 

Deacon  Tim0.  Newell 

Joseph  Callender 
'Samuel  A.  Otis  Esqr. 

Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 

John  Codmau  Senr. 

Deacon  John  Simpkins 

Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr.  ) 

Mr.  John  Andrews  >  9 

Mr.  Joseph  Coolidge  ) 

Thomas  Walley  Esqr.  \ 

Col0.  Joseph  Webb  [•  10 

Majr.  John  Eeed  ) 

Mr.  Joseph  Barrell  ) 

Samuel  Barrett  Esqr.  v  11 

Mr.  Joseph  Russell  Junr.  ) 

Cap4.  Gustavus  Fellows  \ 

John  Lucas  Esqr.  [-  12 

Majr.  John  May  ) 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  the  Combination  of  the 
Bakers  was  again  read  —  and  after  much  debate  and  altercation 
with  the  Bakers,  it  was  moved,  and  carried,  that  all  further  de- 
bate on  this  Article  totally  subside 

The  Meeting  was  then  Adjourned  to  Thursday  the  15  Day  of 
August  next  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon,  then  to  meet  in  this  place 

[142.]     Thursday  the  15th  Day  of  August  Anno  Domini  1782 

—  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon  met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  Frazier  in  the  Chair 
-     Mr.  William  Fallass  one  of  the  Collectors  of  Taxes,  being  in 
the    Meeting,  was    called    upon   to   make   Report  relative    to  the 
Monies  he  had  Collected  of  the  Inhabitants  in  his  Ward,  for  the 
late  Continental  Tax 

Reported,  that  he  had  Collected  of  the  Middling  People  in  his 
Ward,  and  paid  into  the  Treasury  of  this  Commonwealth  to  the 
Amount  of  Six  hundred  pounds  lawful  Money 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  all  Matters,  and  things  which  remains 
unfinished  at  this  Meeting,  be  and  hereby  are  referred  over  to  the 
next  General  Town  Meeting  then  to  be  Acted  upon 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby  are 
given  to  Nathan  Frazier  Esqr.  for  his  good  services  as  Moderator 
of  this  Meeting 

Moved,  that  this  Meeting  be  dissolved  and  it  was  accordingly 

—  dissolved 

At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  Other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  [143,]  Assembled  at  Fanuiel  Hall  the  15th.  Day 
of  August  Anno  Domini  1782  —  5.  O'Clock  Afternoon 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 
Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Town  come  to  a  choice  of  a  Moder- 
ator by  a  Hand  Vote 

Nathan  Frazier  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 


268  City  Document  No.  80. 

Mr.  Thomas  Bayley  one  of  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  being  in 
this  Meeting  was  called  upon  to  make  Report  relative  to  the 
Monies  he  had  Collected  of  the  Inhabitants  in  his  Ward,  for  the 
late  Continental  Tax 

Reported  that  he  had  Collected,  and  paid  into  the  Continental 
Treasury  of  said  Tax,  upwards  of  Eight  hundred  Pounds  lawful 
Money 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "  To  consider  and  determine 
what  is  proper  to  be  done  relative  to  the  Towns  deficiency  of  men 
for  the  Massachusetts  Line  of  the  Army,  a  Warrant  from  the 
Treasurer  of  this  Commonwealth  having  been  issued  for  the 
Assessors  to  Assess  the  Sum  of  £2870 —  13  — 4  on  the  deficient 
Class  or  Classes  in  this  Town,  being  the  Average  price  of 
the  cost  of  raising  the  whole  Number  granted  by  Ihis  State" 
was  read  —  whereupon  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Com- 
mittee [144.]  appointed  for  raising  this  Towns  proportion  of 
Men  for  the  Continental  Army  be  called  upon  to  Report  —  When 
they  Reported  accordingly 

That  586  Classes  paid  the  Committee  £45  each,  for  which 
Classes  they  had  procured  the  Men  —  7  Classes  paid  the  Com- 
mittee £45 —  each  for  which  Classes  they  had  not  procured  men 

That  18  Classes  had  paid  £525 — 18  —  3  in  part  78  Classes 
the  Committee  have  received  of  in  whole  and  part  — 

3  Classes  have  procured  their  own  Men  4  Classes  have  neither 
paid  the  Money  nor  yet  the  Men  —  D  Moraton.  W  Sherburn. 
J.  Russell.  C.  Clark 

85  Men  is  the  Towns  Quota  Mem0,  the  Committee  have  on 
hand  about  £770 

Mr.  Collector  Williams,  being  in  the  Meeting,  was  called  upon 
to  make  Report  relative  to  the  Monies  he  had  Collected  in  his 
Ward  Reported 

That  he  had  Collected  and  paid  into  the  State  Treasurey  Five 
hundred  and  Eighty  Pounds,  and  into  the  Town  Treasurey  — 
Fifty  three  pounds  eight  shillings  and  Six  pence 

The  first  Article  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  the  Towns  deficiency 
of  Men  for  the  Massachusetts  Line  being  again  taken  up,  it  was 
moved  and 

Voted,  that  a  Committee  of  three  Persons  be  appointed  to  take 
up  this  Article  [145.]  at  large,  and  Report  what  they  may  ap- 
prehend will  be  best  for  the  Town  to  do  thereon,  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting 

Voted,  that  the  Honble.  Rob'.  T.  Payne  Esqr. 
William  Story  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Committee  Appointed  to  inlist  this 
Towns  proportion  of  Men  for  the  Massachusetts  Line,  be  desired 
to  continue  their  good  services  untill  the  same  are  Obtained 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'. 

"  To  determine  whether  Gravel  shall  be  taken  from  Fox  II ill  for 
repairing  the  Streets  "  —  was  read  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  have  liberty  to  take  as  much  Gravel 


Boston   Town   Records,    1782.  269 

from  Fox  Hill,  as  they  may  Judge  Necessary  for  the  Repairs  of 
the  Streets  of  this  Town,  any  preceeding  Votes  to  the  contrary  not- 
withstanding 

The  Article  in%the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  of  some  way  for 
discharging  what  is  due  to  several  of  the  Town  Watch  for  former 
Wages  "  —  was  read  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer,  be  directed  to  pay  the  Watch- 
men of  the  Town,  their  back  Wages,  out  of  the  first  Monies  of 
the  Old  Tax  that  shall  be  received  into  the  Treasury 

[146.]  Mr.  Daniel  Parker  one  of  the  Collectors  of  Taxes 
being  in  the  Meeting  was  called  upon  to  make  Report  relative  to 
the  Monies  he  had  Collected  in  his  Wards  for  the  late  Continental 
Tax 

Reported  that  he  had  Collected  &  paid  into  the  State  Treasurey 
of  said  Tax  upwards  of  Six  hundred  Pounds 

Moved  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Monday  next  being 
the  19th.  of  August  Ins4.  5.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon,  then  to 
meet  at  the  Representatives  Chamber 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Monday  the  19th.  Day  of  August  1782.  5.  OClock  in  the  After- 
noon —  Met  According  to  Adjournment 

Nathan  Frazier  Esqr.  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  consideration  of  the 
first  Article  in  the  Warrant  respecting  the  deficiency  of  the 
Towns  quota  of  Men  to  be  raised  &  have  Attended  that  service 
and  now  Report  to  the  Town  that  upon  enquirey  into  the  Matter 
they  find  that  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town  having  been  aranged 
into  85  Classes  for  the  Purpose  of  procuring  the  85  Men 

[147.]  58  of  those  Classes  paid  the  Money  required  of  them 
by  the  Town  to  the  Committee  appointed  for  hiring  the  Men,  and 
they  were  accordingly  hired  Mustered  and  received 

5  of  the  Classes  procured  the  men  themselves 

7  of  the  Classes  paid  to  the  Committee  'their  Money  in  due 
season  Viz'.  —  £45  — ;  but  the  Committee  were  not  Able  to  pro- 
cure the  Men       * 

12  of  the  Classes  paid  part  of  the  £45  — in  due  season 

3  of  the  Classes  paid  nothing  nor  procured  their  Men 

85  Classes.  The  Chairmen  of  the  Classes  who  are  wholy  delin- 
quent are 

Messrs :  Dimond  Morton 

Joseph  Russell  Merch4 : 
Christopher  Clark 

The  Committee  therefore  beg  leave  to  submit  the  following  pro- 
posals to  the  consideration  of  the  Town  —  Viz4. 

That  the  Committee  for  procuring  Men  be  vested  with  dis- 
cretionary power  and  directed  to  procure  the  deficient  number  of 
Men  with  the  greatest  dispatch  and  on  the  easiest  terms  they  can 

That  the  Assessors  be  directed  forthwith  to  Assess  the  whole 
average  sum  of  the  price  of  hiring  a  Man  as  certified  by  the  Treas- 
urer of  this  Commonwealth  and  the  20  pr.  cent  upon  the  delinquent 
Individuals   [148.]  in  the  twelve  Classes  respectively,  who  have 


270  City    Document   No.  80. 

paid  only  part  of  their  £45  —  the  Money  already  paid  by  any 
part  of  such  Classes  to  the  Committee  to  be  applied  towards,  hir- 
ing a  Man  for  such  Class,  when  wanted  for  that  purpose 

That  the  Assessors  be  directed  to  Assess  said  whole  Average 
Sum  with  the  20  per  Cent  on  the  three  Classes  who  are  wholly 
delinquent ;  and  if  either  of  the  three  Classes  who  are  wholy 
delinquent  or  any  of  the  twelve  Classes  ,  who  are  delinquent  in 
part,  should  procure  their  Men  before  the  Sum  aforesaid  to  be 
Assessed  upon  them  shall  be  Collected,  that  then  such  Sums  shall 
not  be  Collected,  any  part  that  is  Collected  shall  be  returned  also, 
that  the  Committee  for  procuring  Men  be  directed  for  to  procure 
the  Men  for  the  7  Classes  who  paid  their  whole  £45  —  in  season, 
and  what  prices,  is  paid  therefor  over  and  Above  the  forty  five 
Pounds,  if  any  be  Assessed  hereafter  at  Large  upon  the  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  Town,  at  the  next  Tax  that  shall  be  levied 
all  which  is  submitted 

R.  T.  Payne  p.  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put.  Viz'.  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affirmative 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  things  which  remaine 
unfinished  at  this  Meeting  be  and  hereby  are  referred  [149.]  over 
to  the  next  General  Town  Meeting  that  may  be  called,  then  to 
Act  upon 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and 
hereby  are  given  unto  Nathan  Frazier  Esqr.  for  his  good  services 
as  Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  —  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified,  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Fanieul  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  3d.  Day  of 
September  AD  1782'—  9  OClock  —  A:  M 

Warrant  for  calling  Meeting — read  . 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared,  that 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Fsqr.  was  chosen  Moderator 
unanimously 

On  a  Motion,  the  Pitition  for  calling  a  Town  Meeting  —  was 
read 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz1.  —  "  Then  and  there  Agreea- 
ble to  the  request  of  a  great  number  of  the  respectable  Inhabitants 
to  take  into  their  serious  consideration,  what  [150.]  Steps  are 
proper  to  be  taken  on  Account  of  the  Alarming  and  distructive 
lengths  to  which  the  ellicit  Trade  with  our  FOnemies  is  now  carried 
was  read 

Samuel  Broom  Esqr.  having  laid  before  the  Town  several  Let- 
ters from  Cap1.  Collis  Mr.  Prentice  &c  and  Other  Papers  relative 
to  a  Number  of  Persons  carrying  on  an  Illicit  Trade  with  the 
Enemy  which  he  had  lately  brought  from  Connecticut  where  they 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  271 

had  been  taken — it  was  moved  that  the  same  be  read,  and  they 
were  accordingly  read  by  the  Moderator 

Mr.  John  Proctor  one  of  the  Persons  mentioned  in  said  Letter, 
Apprehending  his  Character  might  be  injured  by  the  same  ;  being 
in  Town  Meeting,  handed  to  the  Moderator  a  Deposition  Taken 
before  a  Majestrate,  &  moved  that  the  same  might  be  read —  and 
it  was  accordingly  read,  &  then  placed  on  the  File  of  Papers 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  wait  upon 
his  Excellency  the  Governor,  and  to  request  that  he  would  be 
pleased  to  communicate  to  the  Town  such  Papers  or  informations 
as  he  may  Judge  proper  respecting  an  illicit  trade  carrying  on  with 
the  Enemy 

Moved,  &  Voted,  that  this  Committee  consist  of  five 
Voted,  that  the  Honble.  Robert  T.  Payne  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Samuel  Broom  Esq1-. 
[151.]  Isaac  Sears  Esqr. 

(excused)  Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 

Charles  Jarvis  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article   in  the  Warrant  relative  to  illicit  Trade  with    the 
Enemy,  was  again  taken  up,  and  after  some  debate  it  was  moved 
and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed,  to  take  into  consid- 
eration what  Steps  are  proper  to   be  taken,  on  Account  of  the 
Alarming  and  distinctive  lengths  to  which  the  illicit  trade  with  our 
Enemies   is   now  carried  —  and   that  this    Committee  consist   of 
seven 
Voted,  that  the  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
Honble.  John  Lowell  Esq1'. 
Charles  Jarvis  Esqr. 
Stephen  Higginson  Esqr. 
Mr..  Thomas  Walley 
Honble.  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 
Isaac  Sears  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  to  Report  at  the  Ad- 
journment of  this  Meeting 

The  Committee  appointed  to  wait  on  Governor  Hancock  — 
Reported  that  having  waited  on  the  Governor  agreeable  to  the 
direction  of  the  Town,  His  Excellency  had  delivered  to  them  a 
Deposition  taken  in  Connecticut,  and  an  Original  Paper  of  great 
importance 

The  said  Papers  having  been  laid  before  the  Town,  it  was  moved 
that  the  same  be  read  &  they  were  accordingly  read 

[152.]     Moved  &  Voted,  that  there  be  an  Addition  of   two 
Persons  to  the  Committee  relative  to  an  illicit  trade 
Voted,  that  Robert  T.  Payne  Esqr. 
Samuel  Broom  Esqr.    ' 
be  added  to  said  Committee 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  Adam  Babcock  Esqr. 
be  added  to  the  aforegoing  Committee 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  it  be  recommended  to  the  Inhabitants  at 
large,  that  they  communicate   to   the    Committee   relative  to  an 


272  City  Document  No.  80. 

illicit  Trade  such  Ideas  or  Information  as  they  shall  Apprehend 
may  be  useful 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  furnish  the  Committee 
aforesaid  with  Copies  of  the  Papers,  received  from  the  Governer 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall 
be  to  Fry  day  next.  3.  OClock  Afternoon  then  to  Meet  in  this 
place 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Frydaythe  6  Day  of  September  1782  —  Met  according  to  Ad- 
journment 3.  O. Clock  P.M. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  Steps  are  proper  to 
be  taken  on  the  alarming  and  distinctive  Length  to  which  an  illicit 
[153.]  Trade  with  our  Enemies  is  now  carried  on  —  represented 
as  follows 

The  Artful  and  insidious  Cabinet  of  Britain,  sensible  of  the 
Inefficacy  of  their  Fleets  and  Armies  to  enslave  America  and 
hitherto  disappointed  in  their  Expectations  from  Bribery  & 
Corruption,  (Engines,  which  to  their  Astonishment,  have  proved 
of  no  use,  when  Applied  to  the  Free  Sons  of  America,  th6.  in 
common  with  the  most  Successfull  of  all  Means  to  subdue  Man- 
kind to  the  Will  of  Tyrants)  have  in  the  excess  of  their  Folly  and 
Lust  of  Domination,  Adopted  the  Absurd  Idea  of  Subjugating 
America,  by  throwing  in  upon  us  a  Flood  of  their  Manufactures 
and  Incouraging  a  Commercial  Intercourse  between  us  and 
them  —  For  this  purpose  their  Admirals  and  Generals  appear 
to  have  Assumed  the  Character  of  Custom  House  Officers, 
Brokers,  &  such  Other  as  may  be  necessary  to  facilitate  their 
Views.  By  this  Trade  they  expect  to  destroy  that  great,  that  mut- 
ual Confidence  so  happily  subsisting  between  us  &  our  Magnanimous 
Allies  ;  to  revive  that  foolish  Predilection  which  We  once  had  for 
British  Manufactures  and  British  Manners  :  to  Open  to  themselves 
new  Avenues  and  acquire  fresh  Means  of  instilling  the  Principles 
of  Toryism  and  sowing  the  Seeds  of  Disaffection  Among  the 
weak  &  unwary ;  to  send  their  Emissaries  into  all  parts  of  the 
Continent  to  forment  Divisions,  create  distrust  as  to  our  Rulers 
and  by  the  Meanest  and  [154.]  the  vilest  Arts  to  distroy  that 
happy  Union  which  has  hitherto  been,  &  while  it  continues  can- 
not fail  (under  God)  to  be  our  sure  Rock  of  Defence  —  And  Above 
all  to  drain  us  of  our  Money,  the  Sinews  of  War :  having  drawn 
from  us  our  Medium  in  this  Way,  having  made  their  Arrange- 
ments, posted  their  Emissaries,  and  secured  their  Partizens  they 
expect  by  a  violent  run  on  our  National  Credit,  and  to  deprive  us 
of  all  future  Means  of  Defence  Such  are  clearly  their  Views  & 
these  are  the  Mean  Arts  which  haughty,  though  fallen  Britain,  is 
compelled  to  make  use  of.  — To  the  disgrace  of  America,  a  few  of 
her  Sons,  blinded  by  the  Lure,  &  devoid  of  all  Principle,  have 
catched  at  the  Bait ;  and  misled  by  Avarice,  have  taken  the  high 
Road  to  Infamy  and  Ruin 

The  United  States  in  Congress  Assembled,  sensible  of  these 
Evils,  and  Attentive  to  the  safety  of  their  Constituents,  have  in 
every    Instance   within   their    Jurisdiction    by    their   Ordinances, 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  273 

endeavoured  to  suppress  such  illegall  Commerce,  Trade  and  Inter- 
course &  in  other  Instances  recommended  to  the  Legislatures  of 
the  several  States  to  make  effectual  Provision,  by  Laws  for  that 
purpose,  and  called  on  the  People  to  give  Aid  in  carrying  such 
Laws  into  Effect. 

The  Inhabitants  of  Boston  in  Town  Meeting  Assembled, 
determined  ever  to  be  watchfull  of  their  common  Rights  and 
[155.]  Liberties,  and  Attentive  to  the  publick  Safety  —  sensible 
of  the  evil  &  destructive  Tendency  of  such  Trade  &  Intercourse 
—  impressed  with  the  necessaity  of  restraining  it,  —  of  Testifying 
their  Abhorrence  of  such  Base  Practices  —  and  giving  all  Possible 
Aid  in  the  Execution  of  the  Laws,  do  enter  into  the  following 
Resolutions 

First  that  we  will  exert  ourselves  to  the  Utimost  to  detect  & 
bring  to  due  Punishment  all  those  who  shall  import  Goods  from 
Any  Part  of  the  British  Dominions,  and  particularly  from  any 
Post  held  by  the  British  in  America ;  or  any  Goods  of  British 
Growth  or  Manufacture  thrd.  any  Foreign  Ports,  other  than  those 
Allowed  by  Law  ;  or  who  may  be  directly  or  indirectly  concerned 
in  sending  Money  to  any  of  those  Posts,  —  or  who  shall  encourage 
or  promote  Any  Kind  of  Intercourse  with  the  Enemy. 

2d.  That  the  Delacacy  which  some  People  Affect  to  feel,  as  to  giv- 
ing information,  or  making  a  Complaint  of  those  who  are  engaged 
in  such  Vile  Pursuits,  is  false  and  Absurd  in  its  nature  ;  Arrising 
from  wrong  Ideas  of  the  Path  of  Honour  ;  and  the  Line  of  Duty  — 
That  in  cases  like  this  to  become  Informer,  is  to  be  the  Patriot, 
and  it  ought  so  to  be  considered  by  all  those  who  regard  the  Pub- 
lick  Weal 

3dly.  That  this  Town  will  therefore  not  only  countenance,  &  sup- 
port all  those  who  may  be  vigilent  and  active  in  detecting  [156.] 
Informing,  or  Complaining  of  such  Enemies  to  their  Country  ;  but 
will  always  use  them  as  Characters  highly  deserving  Respect  and 
Esteem 

4th.  That  we  will  on  the  Contrary,  esteem  all  those,  who  appear 
to  be  concerned  in  such  infamous  Traffick,  as  Enemies  to  our 
Freedom  and  Happiness  wholly  unfit  to  reside  among  Freemen  :  & 
we  will  by  withdrawing  all  Intercourse  from  them  &  by  treating 
them,  on  all  Occasions,  with  Disrespect  &  Indignity,  equal  to  their 
Demerit,  convince  them,  that  Americans  cannot  Associate  with 
such   base  Characters. 

5th.  That  in  every  Instance  where  Opposition  may  be  made  to 
the  execution  of  the  Laws  prohibiting  such  Trade  and  Intercourse 
we  Will  give  all  possible  Aid  to  the  Executive  Branch  of  Govern- 
ment in  carrying  those  Laws  into  Effect 

6th.  That  our  Representatives  in  the  General  Court  be  and 
hereby  are  Instructed  to  urge  an  immediate  and  Attentive  Revision 
of  the  Laws  of  this  State,  respecting  Trade  &  Intercourse  with  the 
Enemy,  that  all  Necessary  Alterations  &  Amendments  may  be 
speedily  made 

7th.  That  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  &  safety 
of  this  Town,  be  and  hereby  are  desired  to  be  particular  watchful 
of  those  who  are  suspected  of  being  concerned  in  Trade  or  Inter- 


274  City  Document  No.  80. 

course  with  the  Enemy  and  to  communicate  to  the  Attorney  Gen- 
eral any  Discoveries  they  may  make 

8th.  That  as  any  Individual  has  a  Right  to  Inspect  all  Packages 
of  Goods  that  are  transporting  [157.]  as  well  by  Land  as  Water, 
and  to  seize  all  such  Goods  as  may  appear  to  be  illegally  Imported 
in  either  of  those  Ways  it  is  earnestly  recommended  to  the  Inhab- 
itants of  this  Town  individually  to  examine  all  such  packages  as 
they  may  have  reason  to  Suspect  unless  the  Conductor  thereof 
shall  produce  to  them  Certificates  or  other  Satisfactory  Evedence 
that  such  Packages  contain  no  Goods  Subject  to  Seizure 

9th.  That  this  Town  do  hereby  recomend  an  Association  to  be 
immediately  formed  by  such  worthy  Persons  as  shall  Voluntarihy 
engage  therein,  vigilantly,  to  guard  against  the  Danger  of  such 
Goods  being  Artfully  run  into  it  under  cover  of  the  Night ;  and 
reposing  great  Confidence  in  the  Zeal  and  Virtue  of  such  Associ- 
ators,  do  rely  upon  the  most  diligent  Watch  being  kept  in  such 
Numbers  as  they  shall  think  Sufficient  to  prevent  this  Atrocious 
Bussiness,  by  the  most  Carefull  Inspection  and  Examination  of 
all  such  suspected  Persons,  Vessells,  Waggons  &c  as  shall  be  met 
with  in  the  Course  of  their  Duty.  And  the  Selectmen  are  hereby 
instructed  to  give  orders  to  the  Town  Watch  to  patrol  the  Streets, 
and  Wharves,  with  the  special  Intent  of  detecting  this  Illicit 
Trade,  as  well  as  to  preserve  the  Peace  and  Order  of  The  Town 
in  the  Night 

10th.  That  a  Circular  Letter  be  written  to  our  Brethren  in  the 
other  Towns  in  this  State,  to  be  signed  by  the  Town  Clerk,  in  the 
Name  of  this  Town,  containing  the  foregoing  Resolutions,  being 
the  Measures  which  this  Town  has  Adopted  to  Suppress  this 
Shameful  Traffick  and  to  pray  their  Assistance  in  effecting  so 
laudable  a   Purpose 

[158.]  The  Town  having  considered  and  Accepted  the  fore- 
going Resolutions  proceeded  to  the  Consideration  of  a  Circular 
Letter,  also  reported  by  the  Committee,  which  was  Accepted 

The  Town  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  instructed  to  pro- 
cure such  a  Number  of  Printed  Copies  of  the  aforesaid  Resolu- 
tions and  Letter,  as  they  should  Judge  Necessary  &  Transmit 
them,  Signed  by  the  Clerk  to  the  Selectmen  or  Committee  of  the 
Several  Towns,  and  Plantations  Accordingly. 

The  Circular  Letter  is  as  follows  Viz*. 

Boston  6th.  September  1782 
Gentelmen 

The  rapid  and  distinctive  Progress  of  an  Illicit  trade  with  the 
British  in  their  different  Ports  on  this  Continent  has  filled  the  In- 
habitants of  this  Town  with  the  Most  Alarming  Apprehensions. 
As  it  is  not  Surprising  that  a  Cruel  and  Insidious  Enemy  so  Often 
disgraced  by  the  failure  of  their  Other  efforts  to  Accomplish  the 
ruin  of  this  Country  should  have  recourse  to  this  last  expedition 
from  which  they  undoubtedly  expect  the  Most  important  benefits, 
it  is  easy  to  see  Gentelmen,  that  the  continuance  of  this  Pernicious 
Traffict  must  necessarily  involve  the  want  of  a  Sufficient  Medium 
for  the  Common  purpose  of  Society  —  A  circumstance,  should  if; 
unfortunately  happen,  which  must  soon  distroy  the  pecuniary  and 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  275 

indispensable  resources  [159.]  of  the  G-overment,  and  by  giving 
a  deep  wound  to  our  Military  Opperations  so  Necessary  for  our 
defence,  endanger  the  very  being  of  this  Commonwealth 

Impressed  with  these  Sentiments  this  Town  has  thought  proper, 
at  a  Meeting  of  its  Inhabitants,  legally  Convened  for  this  ex- 
press purpose,  to  communicate  the  inclosed  resolutions,  for  your 
Serious  Consideration,  in  the  fullest  confidence  of  your  Adopting 
such  Measures  as  in  giving  vigor  to  the  Laws  must  undoubtedly 
contribute  to  the  Total  extirpation  of  such  an  unnatural  com- 
merce 

As  we  are  sensible  that  the  efficacy  of  the  best  plan  for  the 
Attainment  of  so  Salutary  An  Object,  must  at  last  depend  on  the 
united  efforts  of  the  Towns  in  this  government  —  We  Trust  in 
such  An  interisting  conjuncture,  that  the  Pa  trio  tick  Ardor  which 
has  so  long  and  uniformly  distinguished  the  Inhabitants  of  this 
State,  will  induce  the  most  Zealous  concurrence  in  these  or  similar 
Measures  which  can  have  no  other  Object  but  the  publick  good 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  transmit 
the  Circular  Letter  when  printed  to  the  Selectmen  of  each  Town 
&  Plantation,  and  in  their  Absence  to  the  Committee  of  Cor- 
respondence Inspection    and  Safety 

[160.]  Voted,  that  all  Matters  &  things  which  remain  un- 
finished at  this  Meeting  be  and  hereby  are  refered  over  to  the 
next  General  Town  Meeting  that  may  be  called 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  it  be  recommended  to  the  several 
Printers  in  the  Town  to  publish  the  foregoing  Resolutions,  and 
Circular  Letter  in  their  respective  News  Papers 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and  hereby 
are  given  to  the  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  Moderator  for  his 
good  services  in  the  dispatch  given  to  the  business  of  the  Meeting 
Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  Other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  &  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneiuel  Hall  on  Saturday  the  7th  Day. of 
December  Anno  Domini  1782.  10.  OClock  Forenoon 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  by  the  Selectmen  to  withdraw  & 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  and  the  same  being  brought 
in  and  sorted,  it  appeared,  that 

The  Honble :  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
was  chosen  unanimously 

[161.]     The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz'.  "To  consider  of 
some  suitable  Method  of  shewing  the  Gratitude  and  Respect  of  the 
Town  to  the  Army  and  Navy  of  his  most  Christian  Majesty,  was 
read.  — whereupon —  It  was  moved  and  Voted,  that 
The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 
The  Honble.  James  Sullivan  Esqr. 

William  Cooper  —  Esqr. 


276  City  Document  No.  80. 

be  a  Committee  to  prepare  au  Address  to  His  Excellency  the 
Baron  Vioruenil  General  &  Commander  in  Chief  of  the  Forces  of 
his  Most  Christian  Majesty,  lately  arrived  in  this  Town  pursuant 
to  the  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  &  to  Report  at  the  Ad- 
journment 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  this  Committee  be  directed  to  withdraw, 
and  Report  as  soon  as  may  be 

The  Committee  to  prepare  an  Address  Report  the  following- 
Draught  of  one  which  being  read  and  considered  by  the  Town  — 
the  Question  was  put  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative  —  unanimously 

To  his  Excellency  the  Baron  Viomenil  General  and  Commander 
of  the  Forces  of  his  most  Christian  Majesty  in  the  United  States 
of  America 
Sir 

The  Freeholders  &  other  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston 
legally  Assembled  [162.]  in  Faneiul  Hall  congratulate  your  Ex- 
cellency on  your  safe  Arrival  at  the  Capital  of  this  Common- 
wealth 

It  is  with  particular  Pleasure  that  we  embrace  this  Oppertunity 
of  testefying  the  Singular  Respect  with  which  we  regard  your 
Excellency,  and  the  gallant  Troops  under  your  Command ;  sent 
by  his  most  Christian  Majesty  the  illustrious  Ally  of  the  United 
States,  to  their  Succor  and  Crowned  in  this  Service  with  the  most 
brilliant  Success  and  permanent  Honors 

We  Assure  your  Excellency  that  no  part  of  the  United  States, 
can  be  impressed  More  deeply  with  every  Sentiment,  becoming  the 
Most  faithful  Allies,  towards,  the  King  your  Sovereign,  and  the 
Nation  which  he  governs  with  so  much  Glory,  or  can  entertain  a 
higher  Sense  of  the  great  Merits  of  his  Land  &  Naval  Forces  in 
America,  than  the  Inhabitants  of  Boston.  Our  whole  Country 
Attest  the  perfect  Discipline,  the  uncommon  good  Order  and 
Civility  which  these  Forces  have  constantly  preserved  ;  a  Circum- 
stance among  many  Others  which  while  it  leaves  the  most  agreea- 
ble Impression  on  the  Minds  of  the  Inhabitants  in  every  Quarter, 
and  must  be  extremely  favourable  to  the  publick  Friendship,  can- 
not but  at  the  same  time  hightein  our  Regard  at  their  Departure.  — 
Wherever  these  Forces  may  still  be  employed,  May  Heaven 
defend  their  Persons,  prosper  their  value,  and  add  new  Glories  to 
their  Names  and  to  that  of  their  Nation 

Your  Excellency  we  are  sure  will  be  [163.]  pleased,  that 
upon  this  Occasion  we  do  not  forget  to  mention  with  the  Utmost 
Respect  the  Name  of  Count  Roshambeau  your  Predecessor  in  this 
important  Command,  whose  distinguished  Services  in  America  can 
never  be  forgotten,  and  to  whom  also  we  ardently  wish  every 
Felicity. 

May  the  happy  Alliance  with  France  never  be  dissolved  or  im- 
paired in  the  support  of  which  Such  Expences  have  been  incurred 
—  Such  Toils  endured  —  such  invaluable  Lives  exposed  —  Such 
great  Actions  displayed,  and   such    genourious  Blood  Offered  — 


Boston    Town    Records,   1782.  277 

And  may  the  reciprocal  Fruits  of  it  to  both  Nations  be  perpetually 
augmented 

On  a  Motion  made  —  Ordered,  That  the  Honourable  Samuel 
Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator,  the  Honourable  James  Sullivan  Esq1'. 
and  Samuel  Barret  Esqr.  together  with  the  Gentelmeu  the  Select- 
men be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  his 
Excellenc\7  the  Baron  Viomenil  General  and  Commander  of  the 
Forces  of  his  most  Christian  Majesty,  with  this  Address — Then 
the 

'    Meeting;  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Wednesday  the  fourth 
Day  of  December  Anno  Domini.  1782  10.  O'Clock  in  the  Forenoon 

[164.]     The  "Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  then  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in 
their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
accordingly  brought  in  and  sorted,  it  it  appeared,  that 

Benjamin  Kent  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator 

The  Act  intitled  an  Act  "  for  the  more  effectual  Observation  of 
the  Lords  Day"  was  read,  —  also 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  that  the  Inhabitants  would  agreeable 
to  a  late  Act  of  the  General  Court,  to  choose  twelve  Wardens  to 
serve  the  remainder  of  the  year — was  read — and  after  consider- 
able debate  had  thereon  — it  was  Moved 

That  the  consideration  of  the  choice  of  Wardens  be  suspended 
untill  the  General  Town  Meeting  in  March  next  —  And  the  Ques- 
tion being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

On  a  Motion,  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  now  chosen  to  draw 
up  a  Memorial  to  the  General  Court,  in  order  to  State  the  Reasons 
why  the  Law  intitled  an  Act  for  the  more  effectual  Observation  of 
the  Lords  Day,  Militates  with  the  Constitution —  [165.] 
as  also  with  respect  to  the  inexpediency  of  said  Act  —  and  to 
report  the  Draught  of  a  Memorial  at  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting  —  also 

Voted,  that  Col0.  Tudor 

Dr.  Charles  Jarvis 
Perez  Mourton  Esqr. 
The  Honble:  James  Sullivan 
Benjamin  Hitchbourn  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall 
be  to  Wednesday  next  being  the  eleventh  Day  of  December  In- 
stant. Ten  O. Clock  in  the  Forenoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

10.  OClock.  Forenoon  December  11th.  Met  according  to  Ad- 
journment 

Benjamin    Kent   Esq1,    the    Moderator   of    the    Meeting,    not 


278  City  Document  No.  80. 

Attending,  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Town  proceed  to 
the  choice  of  a  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  when 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
wns  chosen  Moderator  accordingly 

The  Committee  appointed  to  present  the  Address  of  the  Town 
to  his  Excellency  —  The  Baron  Viomenil  General  and  Commander 
of  the  Forces  of  his  Most  Christian  Majesty  in  the  United  States 

[166.]  Reported  that  they  had  presented  said  Address,  to 
which  the  Baron  had  been  pleased  to  make  Reply  —  which  Reply 
being  presented  in  French  and  English,  they  now  laid  before  the 
Town 

The  Reply  in  English  was  read  to  the  Town,  and  is  as  follows 
—  Viz1. 

Gentlemen 

It  belonged  to  the  Count  de  Rochambeau  much  more 
than  to  myself  to  receive  those  distinguished  and  nattering  Testi- 
monies which  you  have  been  pleased  to  give  to  the  conduct  of  the 
Troops,  placed  by  the  choice  and  confidence  of  the  King,  in  his 
hands  in  order  to  serve  the  cause,  of  your  Liberty  —  It  is  by  per- 
suing the  intentions  of  his  Majesty,  and  the  Orders,  the  particular 
Instructions  and  the  example  of  the  General  which  he  gave  us 
that  we  have  been  able  to  inspire  you  with  these  Sentiments  of  es- 
teem and  Attachment  of  which  you  now  Assure  us  in  expressions 
that  do  us  the  greatest  honor 

All  the  principal  Officers  of  this  Army,  are,  as  well  as  myself, 
Gentlemen,  extremely  touched  with  your  Suffrage  in  their  favor ; 
it  in  a  manner  insures  to  them  the  approbation  of  the  King,  and  is 
a  very  flattering  recompence  for  the  care  they  have  taken  to  main- 
tain Discipline  in  the  Regiments  which  they  command  ;  the  other 
Officers  by  whom  they  have  been  perfectly  secured,  will  also  be 
penetrated  with  the  same  sentiments  ;  And  the  whole  Army  [167.] 
see  with  Satisfaction,  how  thoroughly  you  are  perswaded,  that  it 
is  the  perfect  Union  that  has  reigned  between  the  American 
Troops  the  Marine  of  the  King  and  the  French  Corps  under  the 
Orders,  of  the  Count  de  Rochambeaue,  that  France  and  the  United 
States  are  indebted  for  that  Success  you  so  kindly  applaud 

Permit  me  also  Gentlemen  to  seize  the  present  moment  for  de- 
claring to  you  our  Admiration  of  the  virtues,  the  talents,  and  the 
accomplishments,  which  so  particularly  distinguish  his  Excellency 
General  Washington.  We  all  desire  that  the  homage  of  our  re- 
spects, and  of  our  warm  wishes  for  his  preservation  and  happiness, 
may  be  agreeable  to  him  as  a  testimony  of  the  Satisfaction  we 
have  had  in  serving  under  his  Orders 

I  may  venture  to  assure  you  beforehand,  Gentlemen,  that  the 
King  will  very  sensibly  feel  the  good  wishes  which  the  Inhabitants 
of  the  Town  of  Boston  have  so  ardently  made  for  the  glory  of  his 
Reign  and  the  prosperity  of  the  Nation  which  he  governs.  The 
disinterestedness  and  the  wisdom  of  the  views,  of  his  Majesty  in 
all  that  he  has  done  for  the  support  of  the  Independence  of  America 
do  not  admit  a  doubt  that  the  next  destination  of  this  Army  will 
still  contribute  with  efficacey  to  the  Compleate  establishment  of 
that  Object.     To  whatever  part  of  the  Earth  his  Orders  may  send 


BostOx\    Town   Records,  1782.  279 

it,  all  who  compose  this  Corps  will  ever  remember  with  [168.] 
much  sensibility,  the  pleasing  wishes  you  have  expressed  for  us  on 
oul'  departure 

The  Assurances  of  your  Affection,  and  the  expression  of  your 
desires  for  the  Maintainance  of  the  Alliance  which  his  Majesty 
regards,  as  one  of  those  happy  events  that  has  marked  his  Reign 
having  not  the  least  Room  to  doubt  of  the  duration  of  this  Union, 
or  of  the  great  Advantages  that  will  result  from  it  to  the  two 
Nations  in  all  times  to  come 

.  For  myself  nothing  Gentelmen  could  flatter  me  more,  than  tiie 
particular  marks  you  have  been  pleased  to  give  me  of  your 
esteem.  I  beg  you  to  accept,  together  with  all  the  thanks  I 
owe  to  you,  my  most  sincere  respects  and  my  assurances,  that 
1  shall  ever  form  the  warmest  wishes  for  the  prosperity  of  the 
United  States  in  general,  and  for  the  happiness  of  the  Citizens  of 
Boston  in  particular 

Moved  and  Voted,  —  That  the  Town  Clerk  be  directed  to  pub- 
lish in  the  News  Papers  at  the  expence  of  the  Town  —  the  Ad- 
dress of  the  Inhabitants  to  the  Count  de  Rashambeau  the  General 
of  the  French  Army,  together  with  the  Reply  made  to  said  Address 
in  both  languages 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall 
be  to  Wednesday  next.  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "To  consider  what  allow- 
ance shall  be  made  [169.]  Mr.  Isaac  Warren  for  loss  sustained 
on  Monies  he  received  for  Shoes  supplied  the  Town  "  —  was  read 
—  and  after  some  debate  it  was  moved,  that  the  further  consider- 
ation be  referred  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

Adjourned  as  by  a  preceeding  Vote  to  Wednesday  next  being 
the  18th.  of  December  Ins*.  3.  O.Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

Wednesday  the  18th.  Day  of  December  3.  O.Clock  Afternoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Benjamin  Kent  Esq1",  in  the  Chair 

The  Committee  to  draw  up  a  Memorial  to  the  General  Court 
relative  to  the  late  Act  for  the  better  observation  of  the  Lords 
Day  being  called  upon  to  Report 

Col°.  Tudor  the  Chairman  of  said  Committee  being  in  the  Meet- 
ing, acquainted  the  Town  the  Committee  had  not  as  yet  been 
able  to  make  Report  —  and  therefore  they  desired  the  Town  to 
allow  them  a  further  time  for  that  purpose  —  whereupon 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it 
shall  be  to  Fryday  seven  Night  at  three  O'Clock  in  the  After- 
noon 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  acquaint  the  Inhabitants 
in  the  News  Papers  of  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  and  that 
the  Committee  relative  to  the  Lords  Day  Act  are  then  tOi  Report 

[170.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  —  "  To  consider 
what  allowance  shall  be  made  Mr.  Isaac  Warren  for  Loss  sustained 
on  Monies  he  received  for  Shoes  he  supplied  the  Town  "  was  read 
whereupon  it  was  moved  that  a  Committee  of  three  be  Appointed 


280  City  Document  No.   80. 

to  take   this  Article   into   consideration,  and  to  make  Report  as 
soon  as  may  be 

This  Motion  having  been  carried  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  was  chosen 
one  of  the  Committee,  but  having  desired  the  Town  to  excuse 
him  he  was  accordingly  excused  —  It  was  then  moved  and  Ob- 
tained that  the  Vote  for  choosing  three  Persons  on  this  Committee 
be  reconsidered,  and  that 

The  Gentelmen  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose 
aforesaid,  they  are  desired  to  make  Report  to  the  Town  at  the 
Adjournment 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "  To  consider  whether  any 
Measures  shall  be  taken  relative  to  the  Sweeping  of  Chimnies  "  — 
whereupon  moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to 
consider  this  Article  and  Report  to  the  Town  there  Opinion  thereon 
at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

Voted,  that  Samuel  Broom  Esqr. 
Col0.  William  Tudor 
Col0.  Daws 
Col0.  Sears 
Dr.  Noyes 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

[171.]  Then  this  Meeting  was  Adjourned  to  Fryday  the  27th. 
Day  of  December  Ins'.  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

Wednesday  (Friday)  the  27th.  Day  of  December  3.  O'Clock 
Afternoon  —  Met  According  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  relative  to  Mr.  Warren  Reported ;  when  it  was 
moved,  and  Voted  that  the  Report  lay  upon  the  Table  for  the 
present 

The  Committee  relative  to  Chimnies  Reported,  which  Report  hav- 
ing been  read  and  considered,  it  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  the 
Report  be  recommitted,  in  order  for  the  Committee  to  draw  up  a 
By  Law  relative  to  the  Matters,  contained  in  said  Report  —  and 
to  lay  the  same  before  the  Town  at  the  Adjournment 

The  Committee  relative  to  the  Act  for  the  better  Observation  of 
the  Lords  Day  —  Reported  the  Draught  of  a  Memorial  to  the 
General  Court,  which  having  been  read  &  considered  by  the  Town 
in  Paragraphs  —  the  Question  was  put  Whether  the  same  shall  be 
accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Memorial  is  as  follows  —  Viz'.  Commonwealth  of  Massa- 
chusetts 

To  the  honourable  the  Senate  &  the  honorable  the  House  of 
Representatives  in  General  Court  Assembled  at  Boston  Jany. 
1  1KJ, 

[172.]  The  Freeholders  &  Other  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of 
Boston  legally  convened  in  Faneuil  Hall  by  Adjournment  on  the 
27th.  of  December  1782.  beg  leave,  humbly  to  represent  their 
Solicitude  at  the  Appearance  of  an  Act  passed  in  the  last  Session 
of  the  honourable  Court  "  For  the  more  effectual  Observation  of 
the  Lords  Day  "  —  We  are  by  no  Means  insensible  to  the  Impro- 
priety of  those  Disorders  on  the  Sabath,  the  Prevention  of  which 
is  the  declared  Object  of  the  Law   in  Question ;  As   we  firmly  be- 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  281 

lieve  that  but  few  People  have  paid  a  more  becomeiug  &  regular 
Attention  to  a  Day,  which  our  Policy  &  Religion  have  both  conse- 
crated to  Rest  &  Devotion,  than  the  Citizens  of  this  Town.  —  We 
fear  however,  that  this  Law,  strained  beyond  the  Line  of  Expedi- 
ency, if  not  of  the  Constitution  (the  Barrier  of  our  Civil  and 
Religious  Liberty)  must  defeat  its  own  Purposes ;  &  so  far  from 
the  Benefits  expected,  will  be  productive  only  of  those  disoi'ders, 
which  it  is  intended  to  prevent 

In  our  present  Opposition  of  Sentiment  to  that  of  the  honoura- 
ble Court  it  is  a  Source  of  very  pleasing  Reflection  that  the  present 
is  the  only  Instance  where  its  Commands  have  not  met  the  most 
ready  &  ever  Chearful  Acquiescence,  Nor  is  it  without  the  ut- 
most Respect  as  well  as  sincere  Attachment  to  the  Constitutional 
Guardians  of  their  Liberties,  that  the  Inhabitants  of  Boston  now 
presume  to  Offer  their  Objections  to  an  Act  in  the  Event  of  which 
they  are  deeply  and  essentially  interested. 

[173.]  Having  made  these  Assurances  —  We  presume  they  will 
serve  us  for  an  Apology  (if  an  Apology  can  be  necessary  to  give  a 
Sanction  to  the  Remonstrance  of  Freemen  to  their  Governors)  in 
laying  before  your  honours  the  Reasons  which  operated  in  our 
Minds,  as  well  on  the  Score  of  Expediency,  as  in  a  constitutional 
View,  to  effect  a  Repeal  of  this  Obnoxious  Statue  —  It  needs  only 
to  be  suggested  to  your  Honours  that  the  difficulty  of  executing  a 
Law,  is  b}7  no  Means  a  trivial  Objection  to  its  Existance,  where 
the  Urgency  of  the  Case  does  not  render  it  indispensible.  The 
Confusion  and  Necessities  unavoidably  Attendant  on  a  State  of 
War,  will  never  Admit  of  that  perfect  Repose  which  is  the  Com- 
panion only  of  Peace.  To  put  a  Stop  to  those  Employments 
which  the  Past  &  present  Exigences  of  State  have  rendered  indis- 
pensible equally  at  all  times,  would  be  highly  burthensome  to  the 
People  if  not  dangerious  to  the  Safety  of  the  Commonwealth. 
The  War  has  introduced  amongst  us  many  Citizens  of  foreign 
States,  the  Benefit  of  whose  Friendship  &  Assistance,  We  have 
largely  experienced ;  &  who  though  denominated  Subjects  of 
Monarchies,  where  will  is  Law  —  have  never  been  controuled  in 
the  Exercise  of  those  first  and  original  Rights  of  Nature,  peacea- 
bly walking  in,  and  breathing  a  free  Air ;  Against  these  People 
therefore  Policy  as  well  as  a  Regard  to  our  National  Carrecter  for- 
bids the  Execution  of  this  unnatural  Statute ;  And  to  [174.] 
distinguish  those  who  are  in  this  Predicament,  from  the  Natives 
of  the  State,  will  excite  Complaints  at  least  from  many  Against  a 
Law  which  must  be  partial  in  its  Operation  &  unequal  in  its 
Effects.  — In  Another  View  the  Inexpediency  &  Impolicy  of  the 
Act  is  strikingly  obivious  ;  The  Officers  who  are  appointed  to  ex- 
ecute it,  while  they  are  Vested  with  extraordinary  Powers,  &  are 
supernumerary  in  their  Nature  will  forever  be  obnoxious  to  the 
People  at  large.  For  any  Discription  of  Men  to  be  impowered 
forceably  to  stop  the  Subject,  who  is  quietly  Passing  the  publick 
Streets  &  to  demand  of  him  a  Reason  why  he  occupies  that 
Space,  or  breaths  that  Air  in  preferance  to  any  Other  is  so  humil- 
iating an  Authority  &  so  insulting  an  Interrogatory  as  »no  Free- 
man can  snbmit  to  :  While  the  Warden  shrouding  himself  under 


282  City  Document  No.  80. 

the  Sanction  of  the  Statue  &  fancying  like  Paul  in  the  time  of  his 
Infidelity  in  persecuting  the  Christians,  he  is  doing  God's  service, 
may  persist  in  the  Insult,  and  a  Breach  of  the  Peace  will  probably 
ensue. — The  Act  therefore  instead  of  being  a  Securit}7  to  the 
peaceful  Devotions  of  the  Religious  will  become  the  Instrument  of 
their  Disturbance. 

The  general  Aversion  to  the  Machinery. of  Wardens  is  height- 
ened, when  it  is  seen  that  the  Civil  Magistrates,  and  the  ordinary' 
executive  Officers  are  sufficient  for  the  Preservation  of  the  Peace 
&  good  Order  of  the  Community  six  days  out  of  Seven.  —  And 
the  People  can  see  no  Reason  why  the  same  Magistrates  [175.] 
and  the  same  executive  Officers  should  not  be  considered  as  com- 
petent to  the  same  purpose  on  the  remaining  seventh  Day  :  Unless 
the  Wardens,  though  created  by  civil  Authority  are  in  fact  in- 
tended as  Officers  of  Religion,  set  up  to  direct  &  controul  in 
Matters  of  Conscience.  —  This  Idea  whether  just  or  not,  will 
forever  keep  alive  a  Prejudice  against  them,  which  may  frequently 
endanger  the  Civil  Peace. 

May  it  please  your  Honours 

In  a  constitutional  View  of  the  Act,  the  Inhabitants  of  this 
Town  (Although  they  consider  themselves  as  the  unquestionable 
Judges,  at  least  for  the  Purpose  of  remonstrating,  whether  a 
Statute  made  to  effect  them,  exceeds  the  Line  of  the  Constitution 
or  not)  are  sorry  to  have  Occasion  thus  early  to  oppose  their 
Sentements  to  those  of  their  Legislators  upon  so  important  a  Sub- 
ject :  Confident  However  that  no  Legislature  upon  Earth  are  more 
ready  to  here  &  attend  to  the  decent  &  manly  Remonstrances  of 
their  Constituents,  or  any  part  of  Ihem,  than  ours,  We  are  Sure 
to  have  the  Matter  candidly  revised  &  discussed  &  judiciously 
determined.  The  Laying  different  Restraints  &  Penalties  in  the 
same  place  ;  the  making  that  Act  a  Crime  for  one  Class  of  Citizens  ; 
which  is  not  so  for  another,  &  the  Annexing  unequal  Punish- 
ments to  the  same  Offence  in  different  parts  of  the  Commonwealth 
(though  generaly  considered  As  strong  Exceptions  to  any  Law 
under  a  free  Goverment)  are  however  [176.]  in  this  Instance 
merged  in  the  more  substantial  Objections  to  it 

For  We  humbly  conceive  this  Act  militates  with  the  Spirit  if 
not  the  Letter  of  the  Constitution.  By  that  original  solem  Com- 
pact by  which  the  whole  People  have  covenanted  with  each  Indi- 
vidual &  each  Individual  with  the  whole  People,  every  natural 
Right  is  Secured  to  the  Citizen  which  is  not  surrendered  in  un- 
equivocal Terms  —  Liberty  in  its  most  simple  &  Obvious  Sense  ; 
the  Liberty  of  moveing,  from  one  Place  to  another  is  so  far  from 
being  one  of  those  Natural  Rights  which  the  People  of  this  Com- 
monwealth have  surrendered  that  we  esteem  it  one  of  the  dearest 
Gifts  of  God  to  Man,  &  the  Preservation  of  it  among  the  primary 
Objects  of  the  social  Compact,  the  Legislature  therefore  can 
neither  destroy  or  restrain  it,  but  as  a  necessary  Punishment  for 
the  Commission  of  a  Crime  :  It  must  involve  in  it  the  highest 
Absurdity  to  make  the  simple  Exercise  of  this  Right  a  Crime  in 
itself  for  which  the  Subject  (in  addition  to  the  loss  of  his  En- 
joyment) shall  suffer  an  expensive  &  disgraceful  Punishment. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1782.  283 

We  beg  leave  in  a  few  Instances  to  compare  or  rather  to  con- 
trast the  Constitution  with  the  Act.  By  the  Bill  of  Rights  it  is 
expressly  declared  that  no  Subject  shall  be  held  to  answer  for  any 
Crimes  or  Offence  untill  the  same  is  fully  &  plainly  substantially  & 
formally  described  Agreeable  to  the  Formalities  prescribed  by 
Law,  "  And  that  every  Subject  has  a  Right  [177.]  to  be  secured 
from  all  unreasonable  Searches  &  Seizures  of  his  Person  &c.  by 
the  Statute  the  Warden  is  empowered  to  Answer  for  a  Breach  of 
this  Act,  without  any  Formalities  prescribed  by  the  Laws.  —  By  the 
Bill  of  Rights  it  is  declared  that  no  Subject  shall  be  compelled  to 
accuse  or  furnish  Evidence  against  himself  —  The  Act  Subjects 
a  Man  to  Imprisonment  without  Limitation,  Unless  he  will  not  only 
furnish  the  Warden  with  Evidence  of  his  Name,  but  accuse  him- 
self of  a  criminal  Persuit  if  he  has  any 

By  the  Bill  of  Rights,  it  is  expressly  declared  that  the  executive 
shall  not  exercise  the  Legislative  &  Judicial  Powers,  or  either  of 
them ;  By  the  Act,  the  Warden  is  an  executive  Officer,  with  a 
Power  of  imprisoning  or  executing  at  his  Discretion 

A  bare  Recital  of  these  Circumstances  we  presume  (even  if  the 
Principals  upon  which  the  Act  is  founded  were  otherwise  perfectly 
unaceptionable)  are  sufficient  to  demonstrate  its  Unconstitution- 
ality in  the  Mode  of  Proceedure  should  it  be  adopted  &  such  a  Power 
given  to  the  Wardens,  most  of  the  offence  defined  in  the  Statute 
would  go  unpunished 

As  we  conceive  upon  the  fundamental  Principles  of  a  free  Gov- 
erment,  if  the  Constitution  had  been  altogether  silent  upon  the 
Subject,  that  the  Necessity  of  lodging  such  Powers  in  the  Hands 
of  the  Wardens  &  Obliging  the  Party  to  be  his  own  Accuser 
[178.]  to  carry  it  into  Execution,  would  forever  remaine  an  un- 
answerable Objection  to  the  Act ;  We  should  hardly  expect  an 
Argument  of  this  kind  in  its  Support,  since  it  appears  so  clearly 
opposed,  both  to  the  Letter  and  the  Spirit  of  the  Bill  of  Rights,  for 
it  would  be  a  very  Singular  Mode  of  Reasoning,  upon  any  other 
Subject,  to  countenance  the  Violation  of  a  Rule  by  giving  Exist- 
ance  to  the  very  Mischief  it  was  calculated  to  Destroy 

It  may  be  contended  that  the  Bill  of  Rights  clearly  implies  an 
Authority  in  the  General  Court  to  make  such  an  Act,  because  they 
are  expressly  impowered  "  To  provide  for  the  Institution  of  the 
Publick  "  Worship  of  God,  &  for  the  Support  and  Maintenance  of 
Publick  "Protestant  Teachers  of  Piety  Religion  &  Morality,"  "and 
to  enjoin  An  Attendance  upon  such  Teachers  at  stated  Times  & 
Seasons,  if  there  be  any  on  whose  Instruction  they  can  conscien- 
tiously and  "  conveniently"  Attend.  "  That  the  Legislature  have, 
in  Virtue  of  this  Authority  a  Right  to  confine  the  free  People  of 
this  Commonwealth  within  the  Walls  of  their  own  Houses  for  one 
whole  Day  in  seven  except  such  part  of  the  Day  only  as  may  be 
employed  in  the  Publick  Worship  of  God  :  But  we  humbly  con- 
ceive the  Bill  of  Rights  countenances  no  such  Authority.  The 
only  Power  given  to  the  Legislature  by  the  Paragraphs  recited 
was  to  provide  for  the  Institution  of  the  Publick  Worship,  for 
the  Support  and  Maintenance  of  Publick  Teachers  of  Piety 
Religion  &  Morality  &  to  enjoin  an  [179.]  Attendance  upon  such 


284  City  Document  No.  80. 

Teachers,  without  the  remotest  Reference  to  or  Connection  with 
any  Other  Objects  ;  And  if  the  Legislature  can  from  this  Part  of 
the  Bill  of  Rights  deduce  such  Authority,  why  ma}7  they  not  with 
equal  Propriety,  for  the  same  space  of  Time,  consign  the  Subject 
to  the  Stocks  or  the  Pillory,  as  well  as  make  him  a  Prisoner  within 
the  Walls  of  his  own  House.  There  is  certainly  a  Degree  of  igno- 
minious Restraint",  in  either  of  them,  equally  Abhorrent,  to  the 
pure  Principles  of  Religion,  as  averse  to  every  Idea  of  Civil 
Freedom 

That  Clause  of  the  Statute,  which  imposes  a  Penalty  on  him, 
who  shall  Absent  himself  from  Publick  Worship  for  a  certain  space 
of  Time  (though  the  provision  of  it  seems  to  adopt  part  of  the 
Letter  of  the  od.  Article  of  the  Bill  of  Rights)  we  conceive  either 
to  be  Nugatory  &  useless,  or  contrary  to  the  true  meaning  of  the 
very  Clause  in  the  Bill  of  Rights  it  intends  to  comprahend  —  If 
its  meant  by  this  Clause  of  the  Law  that  the  Individual  is  to  be  the 
Sole  Judge  of  his  own  Conscience  we  Ask,  for  what  purpose  is 
the  penalty  Annexed  to  the  Breach  of  it,  for  as  no  other  person 
can  have  the  Right  to  pronounce  him  guilty,  and  as  he  cannot  be 
compelled  to  criminate  himself  his  Guilt  must  remaine  forever 
unproved,  and  the  Law  in  this  view  be  rendered  fruitless  & 
void 

But  if,  as  another  part  of  the  Statute  provides  the  breach  of 
this  Clause  as  well  as  [180.]  others  is  to  be  tried  on  Issue  at 
Law,  And  the  Individuals  Conscience  is  to  be  squared  by  the 
Rules  of  other  Mens,  we  conceive  it  to  be  unconstitutional ; 
because  as  the  Worship  of  the  Deity,  and  the  Rights  of  Con- 
science in  the  Duties  of  Religion  are  unquestionably  between  God 
and  the  Individual  alone,  they  must  be  ranked  among  those 
unalienable  Rights,  we  cannot  delegate  to  Society,  and  which  are 
so  explicitly  secured  to  us  by  the  first  Article  of  the  Bill  of 
Rights  :  nor  does  any  Other  part  of  the  Constitution  justify  a 
contrary  Idea ;  for  that  Clause  in  the  3d.  Article  which  invests  the 
Legislature  with  Authority  to  enjoin  an  Attendance  upon  publick 
worship,  can  Mean  no  more,  than  to  give  them  a  Right  to  recom- 
mend it  to  the  People,  as  essential  to  their  Happiness.  —  We  are 
justified  in  this  Construction,  because  there  is  no  power  given  to 
the  Legislature  by  that  clause,  to  annex  a  penalty  or  Punishment 
to  the  Non  Observence  of  such  Injunctions. 

A  Power  to  enjoin,  without  a  Right  to  enforce  the  Injunction 
cannot  amount  to  more  than  a  Right  to  Recommend: 

And  if  it  had  been  intended  they  should  have  the  Power  to 
enforce  their  Injunctions  with  the  Penalties  &c.  why  is  not  the 
Constitution  explicit  on  so  interesting  a  point ;  its  Silence,  and 
the  Repugnancy  of  the  Principle  to  every  Idea  of  Freedom,  together 
with  its  consequential  militation  with  other  parts  of  the  Constitu- 
tion—  We  therefore  conclude  [181.]  this  Clause  of  the  Act, 
though  ostensibly  adopting,  in  the  proviso  of  it,  the  Letter  of  a 
Clause  in  the  Bill  of  Rights,  is  however  contrary  to  the  real 
Letter  &  Spirit  of  the  whole  Constitution. 

But  to  bury  all  the  Objections  to  this  Act  in  one  uncertain 
principal  it  is  urged,  That  the  General  Court  must  have  a  Right  to 


Boston   Town   Records,   1782.  285 

enact  such  Laws  as  have  a  tendency  to  promote  the  General 
Good,  —  That  the  present  Act  having  that  Good  for  its  sole 
Object,  can  be  Objected  to  only  on  Account  of  its  inexpediency  ; 
and  hence  it  is  infered,  that  though  the  people  at  large  may  have  a 
Right  to  Judge  in  Case  of  a  direct  violation  of  the  Constitution, 
yet  when  the  Question  is  merely  to,  the  inexpediency  of  an  Act, 
the  General  Court  alone  must  be  Judges  in  the  last  Resort 

This  is  an  Argument,  which  has  seldom  failed  of  Success  in 
depriving  a  free  People  of  their  Liberties  ;  but  this  like  the  Others, 
when  brought  to  the  Test  or  Original  principles  &  the  Constitution 
will  be  found  false  &  inconclusive 

"  Though  it  always  has  been  difficult,  if  not  impossible  to  de- 
termine upon  the  very  nice  Line,  between  the  Constitutional 
Authority  for  the  supreme  Legislative  and  the  unalienated  Rights 
of  the  People,  We  suppose  there  are  Cases,  among  which  the 
present  may  be  safely  Ranked,  [182.]  in  which  the  extreme 
Inexpediency  of  the  Measures  must  render  it  perfectly  unconstitu- 
tional ;  since  to  allow  the  Legislature  ;  a  Right  of  enacting  such 
Laws  as  from  their  extreme  Inexpediency  must  produce  the  Most 
dangerous  Convulsions  in  the  State,  would  be  to  grant  them  a 
power  of  defeating  the  very  End  of  the  Social  Compact,  When- 
ever then  the  Legislature  Shall  assume  the  Right  of  making  such 
Laws,  we  think  ourselves  Authorized  by  the  Spirit  of  the  free 
Constitution  We  live  under,  to  declare  our  Sentiments — We  there- 
fore pray  your  Honours  that  a  Statute,  so  Apparently  inexpedient 
&  unequal  &  as  we  apprehend  repugnant  to  those  civil  &  religious 
Liberties,  secured  to  us  by  the  Declaration  of  Rights  may  be 
forthwith  repealed  and  another  be  Adopted  more  congenial  to  the 
principles  of  the  Constitution  and  the  Spirit  and  Sentiments  of  free 
Citizens 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  present 
the  foregoing  Memorial  to  the  General  Court,  and  that  this  Com- 
mittee consist  of  ten  Persons 

Voted,  that  Charles  Jarvis  Esqr. 

Perez  Morton  Esqr. 

Leonard  Jarvis  Esqr. 

Benjamin  Hitchbourn  Esq1.    , 

William  Tudor  Esqr. 

Samuel  Brick  Esqr. 
[183.]  John  Lucas  Esqr. 

Mr.  James  Jarvis 

Isaac  Sears  Esqr. 

Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Gentelmen  who  Represent  this 
Town  in  the  General  Court  be  and  hereby  are  Instructed,  to  sup- 
port the  foregoing  Memorial  in  the  General  Court 

Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Thursday  next.  3. 
O. Clock  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


286  City  Document  No.  80. 

Thursday  the  second  Day  of  January  1783.  3.  O'Clock  After- 
noon—  Met  according  to  Adjournment  » 

The  Committee  to  take  into  consideration  "  what  allowance  shall 
be  made  Mr.  Isaac  Warren  for  loss  sustained  on  Monies  he  re- 
ceived for  Shoes  Supplied  the  Town  beg  leave  to  Report 

That  it  appears  to  the  Selectmen  that  the  said  Warrens  loss  on 
receiving  two  hundred  and  forty  two  Pounds  in  Certificates, 
instead  of  Specie  Amounts  to  the  Sum  of  Twenty  four  Pounds 
four  Shillings — They  therefore  recommend  to  the  Town  that  he 
may  have  a  Draught  from  the  Selectmen  on  the  Town  Treasurer 
for  said  Sum  of  twenty  four  pounds  four  Shillings 

John  Scollay  Chairman  p  Order 

[184.]  The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  con- 
sidered —  the  Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be 
Accepted  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Clause  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  To  consider  what  shall  be 
allowed  the  Town  School  Masters  for  their  services  from  the  first 
of  September  last"  —  was  read  and  considered,  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the 
South  Grammer  School  for  six  Months  commencing  from  the 
first  September  last,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall 
become  due 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Nathan  Davis  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the 
North  Grammer  School  for  six  Months  commencing  from  the 
first  of  September  last,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it 
shall  become  due 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Ninety  five  pounds  be  allowed  and  paid 
unto  Mr.  James  Carter  —  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the 
Writing  School  in  Queen  Street  for  Six  Months  commencing  from 
the  P:  of  September  last  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it 
shall  become  due 

[185.]  Voted,  the  Sum  of  Ninety  five  pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  to  Mr.  John  Tileston  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the 
North  Writing  School  for  six  Months  commencing  from  the  1st.  of 
September  last,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall 
become  due 

Voted,  that  the  sum  of  Ninety  five  pounds  be  allowed  and  paid 
unto  Mr.  John  Vinal  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  Writing 
School  for  six  Months  commencing  from  P.  of  September  last, 
the  same  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due 

Voted,  the  sum  of  Fifty  pounds  be  allowed  and  paid  unto 
Mr.  [Samuel  Payson?]  for  his  Salary  as  Usher  of  the  South  Gram- 
mer School  for  six  Months  commencing  from  the  P.  of  September 
last,  the  same  to  be  paid  him   Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due 

Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Tileston  Master  of  the  North  Writing 
School  be  allowed  Twenty  Pounds  for  six  Months  House  Rent  the 
Same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due  &  to  com- 
mence from  the  l9t.  of  September  last. 

Votod,  that  Mr.  Nathan  Davis  Master  of  the  North  Grammar 
School  be  allowed  and  paid  for  Six  Months  House  rent  Twenty 


Boston   Town   Recokds,    1783.  287 

pounds  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due 
&  to  commence  from  the  1st.  of  September  last 

[186.]  Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Vinal  Master  of  the  Writing 
School  in  the  Common  be  allowed  and  paid  for  six  Months  House 
rent  the  sum  of  Twenty  pounds  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as' it 
shall  become  due  &  to  commence  from  the  1'.  of  September  last 

It  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Report  of  a  Committee  some 
time  past  relative  to  David  Jeffries  Esqr.  which  has  been  accepted 
be  now  reconsidered  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Above  Report  be  recomitted,  and  that  said  Com- 
mittee be  desired  to  take  into  consideration  and  Report  as  soon  as 
may  be  what  they  shall  Judge  should  be  allowed  the  late  Treasurer 
Jeffries  for  all  his  services  to  the  present  time  —  sent 

Moved  and  seconded  that  a  List  of  the  Persons,  and  their 
Taxes  which  have  not  been  Collected  by  the  several  Collectors  be 
recommitted  to  the  Assessors,  and  that  they  be  and  hereby  are 
impowered  to  make  such  Abatements  thereof  as  they  shall  Judge 
it  was  not  then,  neither  is  now  in  the  power  of  the  said  Collectors 
to  receive 

And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affir- 
mative 

Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next  Three  O'Clock  Afternoon 

[187.]  Wednesday  the  8th.  Day  of  January  1783  Three 
O'Clock  Afternoon — met  according  to  Adjournment 

Benjamin  Kent  Esqr.  in  the  Chair 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  be  excused  from  serv- 
ing on  the  Committee  to  whom  is  referred  the  consideration  of  what 
may  be  due  to  the  late  Town  Treasurer  for  all  his  services  to  the 
present  time 

Voted,  that  Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
be  added  to  the  foregoing  Committee  who  are  to  make  Report  to 
the  Town  as  soon  as  may  be 

"The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.  To  consider  and  cletermin 
What  shall  be  allowed  the  Assessors  for  their  services  in  that 
Office  "  —  was  read —  whereupon  it  was  moved  and  Seconded,  that 
the  Town  now  determin  what  the  Assessors  shall  be  allowed  for 
their  services  p  Day — And  the  Question  being  put  —  Passed  in 
the  Negative 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it 
shall  be  to  Monday  next  being  the  thirteenth  Day  of  January  at 
3.  0. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned. 


[188.]  Monday  the  13th.  Day  of  January  1783  3  O. Clock 
Afternoon  —  Met  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  relative  to  Chimnies  laid  before  the  Town  their 
Report  which  being  read  and  considered  paragraph  by  paragraph 
was  amended  in  Meeting  and  Accepted  by  the  Town  and  is  as 
follows  Viz*. 


288  City  Document  No.  80. 

That  the  Geutelmen  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  Advertise  for 
some  suitable  person  to  undertake  the  Sweeping  of  Chimnies  who 
shall  have  an  exclusive  right  on  condition,  that  he  contract  with 
them  in  behalf  of  the  Town,  in  such  a  Manner  as  to  Answer  the 
purpose  intended.  Whos  title  shall  be  known  by  the  Name  of  a 
Comptroller.  And  as  the  following  outlines  of  a  plan  and  Estimate 
may  be  serviciable  in  shewing  the  propriety  of  the  Measure  ;  it  is 
Offered  for  consideration.  Supposing  1800  Dwelling  Houses  and 
3  funnells  to  a  House  the  Number  is  5400  and  if  necessary  to  be 
swept  three  times  in  a  year  they  will  be  equal  to  16200  Funnells 
and  at  the  price  Chimnies  are  now  swept  Viz*.  3/6  one  with  an- 
other will  amount  to  £2835.  And  it  is  presumed  they  may- be 
swept  for  £810  which  is  only  one  shilling  p  Chimney,  and  a  sav- 
ing made  of  more  than  £2000  p  Annum  if  some  such  plan  as  the 
following  be  Adopted  Viz'.  One  Master  not  to  exceed  —  £200 
p  Annum  [189.]   at  the  discretion  of  the  Selectmen 

6  Sweepers     -     - (S  £100  _  600 

Brooms  &  Scrapers 10--      £810 

each  Sweeper  to  have  two  Wards,  or  what  is  equal- in  funniels  to 
one  sixth  part  of  the  whole  (to  be  under  the  direction  of  the 
Master)  which  will  give  him  9  funnels  p  Day  &  300  Working 
Days  in  the  year  will  compleat  his  2700  or  6th.  part.  Six  Sweepers 
upon  this  Estimate,  will  sweep  the  16200  funnells  or  the  1800 
Houses  3  f unnell  each  3  Times  in  a  year.  —  The  Master  may 
easily  have  the  Dwelling  Houses  from  the  Assessors  Books  which 
will  readily  give  him  the  funnells  commonly  in  use.  And  as  some 
Chimnies  may  require  sweeping  Oftener  and  others  not,  it  is  sup- 
posed that  the  Estimate  is  full  high,  but  the  experience  of  one  year 
will  make  it  more  certain.  It  is  not  doubted,  but  an  Act  of  Gov- 
erment  may  be  obtained  (if  their  is  not  one  already  sufficient  for 
the  purpose)  to  empower  the  Town,  if  Agreeable  to  them  ;  to 
Oblidge  the  Inhabitants  under  a  penalty  to  sweep  their  Chimnies 
at  least  three  times  in  the  year ;  And  no  reasonable  person  can 
have  a  just  Cause  of  Complaint,  when  the  Sum  to  be  paid  will  be 
so  much  less  and  the  Advantages  arising  so  great  from  some  such 
Regulations  as  the  Above. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Report,  the  Draught  of  a  By  Law 
relative  to  the  regular  sweeping  the  Chimnies  of  .this  Town  Re- 
ported [190.]  a  By  Law  accordingly,  which  was  considered  by 
Paragrafs  &  comented,  &  the  Question  being  put  weather  the 
same  shall  be  Accepted  as  a  By  Law  of  the  Town,  Passed  in  the 
Affermative  and  is  as  follows  viz1. 

It  is  hereby  ordered  and  directed  that  every  Person  occupying 
any  House  or  Tenement  within  the  Town,  of  Boston  shall  cause 
such  Chimney  of  such  House  or  Tenement,  wherein  a  Fire  is 
usually  kept,  to  be  sweept  three  times  at  least,  every  year,  if  it 
Appears  in  (the  Judgement  of  the  Inspecter  to  be  necessary.) 
And  the  Occupier  of  every  Such  House  or  Tenement  shall  forfeit 
&  pay  the  Sum  of  ten  shillings  for  each  &  every  Chimney  which 
shall  not  be  Sweept  as  Above  directed 

And  it  is  further  ordered  that  each  and  every  Inhabitant  whose 
Chimnies  shall  be  swept  in  the  Manner  before  ordered,   shall  pay 


Boston   Town   Records,   1783.  289 

to  the  Chimney  Comptroller,  at  &  after  the  Rates  following,  if 

swept  by  said  Comptroller  or  by  his  directions 

Viz'.  For  each  Funnel  of  five  Stories  high  one  shill8.  &  6d. 

For  each  Funnel  of  four  Stories  high  one  shills  &  4d. 

For  each  Funnel  of  three  Stories  high  one  shilK  &  2d. 

For  all  other  Chimnies —  One  shilling 

The  said  Comptroller  to  be  Accountable  to  the  Selectmen  for  all 
Monies. so  paid  to  him  &  that  said  Comptroller  shall  give  Bond  to 
[191.]  the  Town  Treasurer  for  the  payment  of  such  Monies  & 
for  the  faithful  discharge  of  his  Office  And  in  Case  any  Person 
shall  be  unable  to  pay  the  sum  directed  to  be  paid  for  sweeping  his 
or  her  Chimne}7s  as  aforesaid,  such  Comptroller  shall  report  the 
Name  of  such  Person  to  the  Selectmen,  who  upon  proper  Inquiry, 
may  at  their  Discretion,  charge  the  same  on  the  Fund  arising  from 
the  general  Assessment  aforesaid 

But  for  the  more  exact  Observation  of  the  By  Laws  relating  to 
Chimneys,  It  is  hereby  Voted  and  Ordered,  That  it  shall  be  the 
Duty  of  the  Comptroller,  carefully  to  inspect  all  the  Chimnies  in 
said  Town,  where  fires  are  usuallay  kept,  &  See  that  they  are  faith- 
fully swept,  and  if  any  Chimney  shall  take  fire  in  three  Weeks 
After  they  have  been  swept  by  him  or  his  Assistance,  he  shall  be 
Subjected  to  pay  a  fine  not  exceeding  Twenty  shillings  for  each 
Chimney  nor  less  then  ten  shillings 

The  beforegoing  By  Law  not  to  take  effect  untill  a  Comptroller 
and  Sweepers  are  appointed 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.    Viz1. 

"  To  Consider  and  determine  what  shall  'k  be  allowed  the  Assess- 
ors for  their  services  in  that  "  Office,"  was  again  read,  where- 
upon Voted;  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  allow  [192.] 
the  Assessors  for  their  past  services  at  the  Rate  of  Nine  Shillings 
pDay 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  things  which  remain  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting  be  and  hereby  are  referred  over  to  the  Next  General 
Town  Meeting  that  may  be  called. 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town,  be  and  hereby 
are  given  to  Benjamin  Kent  Esqr. — Moderator,  for  his  good 
Services  in  the  Despatch  given  to  the  Business  of  the  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  5th 
Day  of  March  Anno  Domini  1783 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Honble.  James  Otis  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  and  took  his  Seat  accord- 
ingly 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  the  5th  of  March  last  to 
apply  to  a  Gentleman  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  5th  of  March 
[193.]  Instant  to  perpetuate  the  memory  of  the  horred 
Massacre  perpetrated  on  the  evening  of  the  fifth  of  March  1770  by 


290  City  Document  No.   80. 

a  Party  of  Soldiers  :  under  the  Command  of  Cap'.  Thomas  Pres- 
ton of  the  29th.  Regiment 

Reported 

That  having  met  several  times  for  the  purpose  mentioned  in  the 
Town  Vote,  they  have  unanimously  made  choice  of  Dr.  Thomas 
Welch  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  fifth  of  March  Instant,  who 
had  accordingly  Accepted  of  that  Service 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  —  the  same  was  accepted 
by  the  Town 

Upon  a  Motion  the  Town  took  into  consideration,  what  would 
be  the  best  time  to  have  the  Oration  pronounced,  as  also,  what 
place  would  be  most  suitable  for  the  purpose  — whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Oration  be  delivered  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting 
House,  the  Hall  not  being  capacious  enough  to  receive  the  Inhabi- 
tants, that  Attended  upon  the  occasion  also 
Voted,  that  Col0.  Hancock 
Cap1.  Parkman 
Mr.  Moses  Grant 
be  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Doctr.  Thomas  Welsh  and  acquaint 
him,  that  it  is  the  desire   [194.]  of  the  Town,  that  the  Oration 
may  be  delivered  at  the  Old   Brick  Meeting  House  at  half  past 
12.  O'Clock  this  day  ;  as  also  to  ask  leave  of  the  Committee  of 
said  Church,  for  the  use  of  that  Building 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed,  to  order 
the  several  bells  in  this  Town  to  be  tolled  from  one  Quarter  of 
an  Hour  after  Nine  O'Clock  this  Evening  untill  10.  O:  Clock 

Adjourned  to  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  £  past  12.  O'Clock 
accoi'ding  to  Adjournment 

The  Town  Met  at  the  Old  Brick  Meeting  House  £  past  12  O. 
Clock  according  to  Adjournment 

The  Committee  appointed  to  wait  on  Dr.  Thomas  Welch,  to  ac- 
quaint him  with  the  Vote   of  the  Town,  respecting  the  time  and 
Place  for  the  delivery  of  the  Oration 
Reported, 

That  said  Gentleman  was  ready  to  comply  with  the  Order  of 
the  Town 

An  Oration  to  commemorate  the  horred  Massacre  of  the  5th.  of 
March  1770  and  to  impress  upon  the  Minds  of  the  Citizens  the 
ruinous  tendency  of  standing  Armies  being  placed  in  Free  and 
Populous  Cities  &c  was  delivered  byDr.  Thomas  Welch  [195.]  to 
a  large  and  crouded  Assembly,  and  received  by  them  with  great 
Applause 

On  a  Motion  made  Voted  that 

The  Honble.  James  Otis  Esqr.   Moderator 
John  Scollay  Esq1". 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq*. 
Dr.  Cooper 
Tattle  Hubbard  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  Elias  Sigorney 
be  and  hereby  are   appointed    a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Doctf. 


Boston   Town   Records,    1783.  291 

Thomas  "Welsh,  and  in  the  Name  of  the  Town  to  thank  him  for 
the  Spirited  and  elegant  Oration  delivered  by  him  at  their  request, 
in  commemoration  of  tbe  horred  Massacre  perpetrated  on  the 
Evening  of  the  fifth  of  March  1770.  by  a  Party  of  Soldiers  of  the 
29th.  Regiment  under  the  Command  of  Cap*.  Thomas  Preston,  and 
to  request  of  him  a  Copy  thereof  for  the  Press 

A  Petition  of  John  Green  one  of  the  Persons  wounded  on  the 
Evening  of  the  5th.  of  March  1770  also  the  request  of  Mr.  Patter- 
son who  lost  the  use  of  one  of  his  Arms  on  that,  memorable 
Night  —  was  read  —  and  considered 

A  Collection  was  made  for  the  aforenamed  Persons  amounting 

to  the  Sum  of and  put  into  the  hands  of  the  Selectmen 

to  be  distributed  as  they  may  Judge  proper 

[196.]  The  Town  did  not  proceed  as  usuaA  to  the  choice  of  a 
Committee  to  provide  an  Orator  to  deliver  an  Oration  the  5th  of 
March  next  —  the  following  Motion  having  been  made  by  the 
Town  Clark  — Viz1. 

"Whereas  since  the  Institution  of  this  Anniversary  on  the  5th  of 
March  which  has  answared  excellent  purposes,  a  Signal  Revolu- 
tion has  been  effected  through  the  Favor  of  Heaven  in  the  Gov- 
ernment of  our  Country  by  the  establishment  of  the  Independance 
of  these  United  States  of  America :  And  whereas  this  Memorable 
Event  has  induced  many  of  the  Inhabitants  to  make  a  Question 
whether  in  our  present  situation  it  would  not  be  for  the  public  benefit 
to  exchange  the  present  Institution  for  another  of  the  same  General 
nature  —  such  for  instance  as  an  Anneversary  for  celebrating  the 
glorious  and  happy  Declaration  of  the  Independance  of  the  United 
States  of  America,  in  which  the  Orator  might  consider,  the  steps 
that  led  to  this  great  Revolution,  the  distinguished  Characters  im- 
ployed  in  effecting  and  maintaining  it  —  the  important  and  timely 
aid  these  States  received  from  an  Alliauce  with  his  Most  Christian 
Majesty  Louis  XVI  in  consequence  of  this  Declaration  and  while 
under  rnany  difficulties  in  strugling  with  an  inraged  &  cruel  Enemy 
to  support  and  defend  it  —  as  also  the  superior  advantages  of  a 
Republican  form  of  Government  [197.]  well  Constituted  & 
Administered  for  preserving  and  promoting  the  Liberties  and  hap- 
piness of  Mankind ;  and  the  necessity  of  Virtue  &  good  Manners, 
and  of  an  Education  that  tends  to  promote  them,  in  order  to  sup- 
port such  a  Government,  and  to  realize  the  Advantages  it  is 
adopted  to  promote. 

Therefore  voted,  that  a  Committee  be  Appointed  by  the  Town 
to  consider  this  Matter  at  large  and  Report  at  the  next  May 
Meeting  * 

On  a  Motion  — Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  this  Motion  be 
referred  to  March  Meeting 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of   Boston   duly  qualified  and    legally  warned  in  publick 

*[  "  at  the  adjournment,"  in  original  paper.] 

.  W.  H.  W. 


292  City  Document  No.  80. 

Town    Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the   10th. 
Daj'  of  March  Anno  Domini  1783 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  John  Eliot 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

Sundry  Laws  enjoined  to  be  read  at  this  Meeting,  were  accord- 
ingly —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared,  that 

[198.]  The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  was  chosen  Mod- 
erator 

The  Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  having  by  a  Letter  to  the 
Selectmen  acquainted  them  that  his  engagement  in  the  Senate,  put 
it  out  of  his  power  to  give  his  Attendance  at  this  Meeting 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  another  Person,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted  it  Appeared  that 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator,  unanimously 

William  Cooper,  was  chosen  Town  Clerk  for  the  year  ensuing 
and  took  the  Oath  of  Office  for  the  faithful  discharge  of  his  duty, 
which  Oath  was  Administred  to  him  by  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 

The  Town  having  determined  by  a  Vote  to  choose  seven  Select- 
men, the  Inhabitants  were  then  directed  to  withdraw,  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  that  Number,  and  the  same  being  brought  in 
and  sorted,  it  appeared  that  the  Following  Gentlemen  Viz'. 
John  Scollay  Esqr. 

Cap4.  Gustavus  Fellows  excused 

Harbottle  Dorr  Esq1'. 

Nathan  Frazier  Esqr.  excused 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Cap1.  William  Macky 
Tuttle  Hubbard  Esq', 
were  chose  Selectmen  for  the  year  ensuing  unanimously 

[199. J  The  Inhabitants  as  directed  by  the  Moderator,  brought 
in  their  Votes,  for  twelve  Overseers  of  the  Poor,  and  upon  sorting 
them  it  Appeared,  that  the 

Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr. 
Isaac  Smith  Esqr. 
Mr.  Jonathan  Mason 
Cap'.  Samuel  Partridge 
Mr.  Samuel  Whitwell 
Mr.  John  White 
Edward  Proctor  Esq1". 
William  Powell  Esqr. 
John  Swectser  Esqr. 
Samuel  Barret  Esqr. 
Mr.  Nicholas  Bowes 
Joseph  Webb  Esqr. 
were  chosen  Overseers  of  the  Poor  for  the  year  ensuing. 

Moved,   that  the    consideration    of  the  choice  of    Wardens    be 


Boston   Town   Kecords,    1783.  293 

referred  to   4  oClock  Afternoon  and  the  Question  being  put,  — 
Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Town  brought  in  their  Votes,  for  Sixteen  Fire  Wards, 
and  the  same  having  been  sorted,  it  Appeared  that 

John  Scollay  Esqr. 

William  Cooper  Esqr. 

Francis  Shaw  Esqr. 

Edward  Proctor  Esqr. 

Caleb  Davis  Esq1". 

Mr.  Thomas  Tileston 
[200.]  Cap'.  Gustavous  Fellows 

Joseph  Webb  Esq1'. 

Mr.  John  Lowell 

Major  Thomas  Melvill  Esqr. 

Jabez  Hatch  Esqr. 

Cap*.  Isaac  Phillips 

Josiah  Waters  Esqr. 

Mr.  Jacob  Rodes 

Cap'.  Ebenezer  Parsons 

John  Coffin  Jones  Esqr. 
where  chose  Fire  Wards  for  the  ensuing  Year 

Nathan  Frazier  Esqr.  having  by  a  Letter  directed  to  the  Mod- 
erator, acquainted  the  Town,  that  the  Business  he  was  engaged  in 
put  it  out  of  his  power  to  Attend  the  Duty  of  a  Selectman 

It  was  Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and 
hereb}^  are  given  unto  Nathan  Frazier  Esq1',  for  his  Good  & 
faithful  services  as  a  Selectman  of  this  Town  for  a  Number  of 
years  past.  —  Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned  to  3  Clock  P.M. 
at  3  P.M.  — the  Town  Met  According  to  Adjournment 
On  a  Motion,  Made,  Voted,  that  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  chosen 
Seperate  from  Constables 

This  being  the  Time  Assigned  for  bringing  Votes,  for  twelve 
Constables,  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  &  bring  in 
their  Votes,  accordingly 

[201.]     The  following  Persons  were  Chosen  Constables  Viz'. 
Messrs.    William  Rogers  excused 

John  Tufts  excused 

William  Patten  sworn 

Samuel  Whitney  sworn 

John  Kennedy  excused 

John  Butte rfield 

Joseph  Simpson  excused 

•  John  Hunt  excused 

John  Wheeler 

Samuel  Smith  sworn 

Patrick  Conner  excused 

Robert  Williams  excused 

were  chosen  Constables  for  the  year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Town  Treasurer  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted  it  appeared  that 


294  City  Document  No.  80. 

Mr.  Peter  Boyer 
was  Chosen  Town  Treasurer  for  the  Ensuing  Year 

This  being  the  Time  Assigned  for  the  Consideration  of  the 
choice  of  Wardens  for  the  year  ensuing  —  It  was  Moved  that  the 
choice  of  Wardens  be  reffered  to  the  General  Town  Meeting  in 
March  next —  &  the  Question  being  put  passed  in  the  Affermative 
only  eleven  dissentiants  the  Meeting  allowed  to  consist  of  upwards 
of  400  People 

Moved,  that  the  Vote  now  passed  respecting  Wardens,  be  pub- 
lished in  the  several  [202.]  Boston  News  Papers,  and  the  Ques- 
tion being  put  passed  in  the  Affirmative  almost  unanimously 

Cap1.  Gustavous  Fellows  having  by  a  Letter  directed  to  the  Mod- 
erator Acquainted  the  Town,  that  the  Business  he  was  engaged  in 
put  it  out  of  his  Power  to  Attend  the  Duty  of  a  Selectman 

It  was  moved  and  Voted  that  the  Thanks  of  the  Town  be  and 
hereby  are  given  unto  Cap4.  Gustavous  Fellows  for  his  good  and 
Faithful  Services  as  a  Selectman  of  this  Town  for  a  Number  of 
Years  past 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  Consider  the  Petition  of 
a  great  Number  of  the  Inhabitants  for  the  preventing  or  removal 
of  the  incumbrances  occasioned  by  the  placing  of  Carts,  paynyards, 
stalls  and  benches  on  Dock  Square,  and  in  other  Publick  Places, 
to  the  great  interruption  of  Passangers,  and  the  hazzard  of*  the 
Limbs  &  Lives  of  the  Inhabitants  ;  and  that  some  suitable  Place 
or  Places  may  be  provided  for  the  Accomodation  of  the  Market 
people  "together  with  the  Petition  itself  was  read  whereupon, 

Voted  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  take  into  consideration 
this  Petition  and  the  Article  in  the  Warrant  at  Large  and  make  re- 
port at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 
[203.]     Voted,  that 

Dr.  Charles  Jai'vis 

Joseph  Barrell  Esqr. 

Col0.  Thomas  Daws 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 

Mr.  Samuel  Elliot 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 

Perez  Morton  Esq1', 
be  a  Committee  for  the  Purpose  aforesaid,  and  that  said  Com- 
mittee do  also  take  into  consideration  other  Nusances  of  the  Town 
and  report  at  the  same  time 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  &  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  County  Treasurer,  which  was  received  and  Sealed  up 
in  Meeting  &  then  delivered  to  Constable  Smith  to  be  by  him 
returned  to  the  Court  of  General  Sessions  of  the  Peace  at  the  next 
Meeting 

Agreeable  to  the  Article  in  Warrant  Viz1. — To  consider  a 
Motion  made  on  the  5th  of  March  Ins1,  for  the  exchange  of  the  in- 
stitution of  the  Anniversary  for  Another  of  a  General  Nature,  for 
Reasons  in  said  Motion  "  the  following  Motion  was  made  —  Viz1. 
Whereas  since  the  Institution  of  this  Anniversary  on  the  5th  of 
March  which  has  Answered  excellent  purposes,  A  Signal  Revolu- 


Boston   Town   Records,  1783.  2(J5 

tion  has  been  effected  through  the  Favour  of  Heaven  in  the  Gov- 
ernment of  our  Couutry  by  the  establishment  of  the  Independance 
of  these  [204.]  United  States  of  America  :  and  whereas  this 
memorable  event  has  induced  many  of  the  Inhabitants  to  make  a 
Question  whether  in  our  Present  situation  it  would  not  be  for  the 
Publick  Benefit  to  exchange  the  present  Institution  for  Another 
of  the  same  general  Nature  :  such  for  instance  As  an  Anniversary 
for  celebrating  the  glorious  and  happy  Declaration  of  the  Inde- 
pendence of  the  United  States  of  America  in  which  the  Orator 
might  consider  the  Steps  that  lead  to  this  great  Revolution,  the 
distinguished  Carrecters  imployed  in  effecting  and  maintaining  it 
the  important  &  timely  Aid  these  States  received  from  an  Alliance 
with  his  most  Christian  Majesty  Lewis  XVI  in  consequence  of  this 
declaration  &  while  under  many  difficulties  in  strugling  with  an 
enraged  and  cruel  Enemy  to  support  and  defend  it.  As  also  the 
superior  Advantages  of  a  Republican  form  of  Government,  well 
constituted  and  Administred  for  preserving  and  promoting  the 
Liberties  &  happiness  of  Mankind  and  the  necessity  of  Virtue  and 
good  Manners  &  of  an  education  that  tends  to  promote  them  in 
order  to  support  such  a  Government  and  to  realize  the  Advan- 
tages it  is  adopted  to  promote 

Whereupon  the  Question  was  put.  Whether  the  same  shall  be 
excepted 

Passed  in  the  Affirmative 
also  Voted  that 

Perez  Morton  Esq. 

[205.]  CoP.  Tudor 

Thomas  Daws,  Junr. 
Joseph  Barrell 
Doctr.  Charles  Jarvis 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  this  Matter  at  Large  &  Report  at  the 
Adjournment 

Moved  that  the  Town  now  proceed  to  the  choice  of  four  Collect- 
ors of  Taxes  for  the  year  ensuing  —  and  the  Question  being 
put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Above  Vote  be  recommitted  and  that 
the  choice  of  Collectors  be  referred  to  to  Morrow  Morning 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  being  the  eleventh  of  March  Instant 
10.  O  Clock  in  the  Forenoon 

Tuesday  the  11th  Day  of  March  10.  O  Clock  in  the  Forenoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

Mr.  William  McNeil 
Mr.  Edward  How 
where  chose  Surveyors  of  Hemp  for  the  year  ensuing 
Mess™.  Joseph  Buttler 

Clement  Collins  Jur. 
John  Ballard  Junr. 
John  Champney 
Joseph  Ballard 
Jonathan  Stodder 
[206.]  Edmond  Ranger 


296  City  Document  No.  80. 

Abraham  Howard 

Benj\  Page  v 

Samuel  Fenno 

Samuel  Dellawa}' 

James  Rogers 

Thomas  II ran 

Henry  Blaisdill 

Samuel  Dyer 

Joseph  A37nes  [Ayres] 
were  chose  Surveyors  of  Boards  for  the  year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Daniel  Brown 

Jonathan  Stoddard 

John  Neat 

Samuel  Todd 

William  Clough 
were  chosen  Fence  Viewers  for  the  year  ensuing 
Messrs.  Nathaniel  Green 

Samuel  Bangs 

Stephen  Gore 

Joseph  Hayden 
were  Chose  Sealers  of  Leather  for  the  year  ensuing 

Mr.  Adam  Colson  • 

was  chosen  Informer  of  Deer  for  the  year  ensuing 
Mess".  Joseph  Spear 

Menassah  Masters 

Joshua  Pico 
[207.]  Caleb  Hayden 

John  Owen 

Edmond  Burd 

Cap'.  David  Spear 

Joseph  Loring 

Robert  Hitchlnirne 

Daniel  Bell 

Robert  Brick 

John  McElary 
were  chosen  Cullers  of  Staves  for  the  year  ensuing 

Messrs.  George  Hamlin -       sworn 

Samuel  Curtis 
were  chose  Haywards  for  the  ensuing  year 

Mess™.  William  McFadden    -     -     -     -     -    excused 

William  Sharp 

Jacob  Edes 

Josiah  Simpson 
were  chose  Hogreeves  for  the  year  ensuing 

Ward 

Messrs.  John  Cade No.  1  excused 

Thomas  Stoddar      -  -  -  2 

Joseph  Prince     -     -  -  -  3  declines 

John  Cogswell     -     -  -  -  4 

Samuel  Sumner  -     -  -  -  5 

Jeremiah  Bumstead  -  -  6      sworn 

Ephrim  Copeland     -  -  7 

John  Kennedy     -    -  -  -  8 


Boston   Town  Records,    1783.  297 

Zipheon  Thayer  -     -     -  9  excused 

Joseph  Shed  -     -     -     -  10 

George  Langley       -     -  11 

Peter  Geyer  -     -     -     -  12 

were  chosen  Scaviugers  for  the  Year  ensuing 
[208.]  Messrs.  Thomas  Green 

John  Skinner 
were  chose  Assay  Masters  for  the  ensuing  year 
Messrs.  John  White  Esqr. 

John  Sweetzer  Esqr. 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
were  chose  Purchasers  of  Grain  for  the  year  ensuing  and  they  are 
desired  and  impowered  to  give  all  needful  directions  to  the  Keeper 
of  the  Granary  respecting  the  quantities  of  Grain  to  be  sold,  and 
Affixing  the  prices  thereof  from  time  to  time  as  Occasion  shall 
require  ;  and  the  said  Committee  are  desired  and  directed  to  cause 
all  the  Grain  belonging  to  the  Town  to  be  ground  at  the  New 
Mills  near  the  Mill  Bridge 

The  Selectmen 
were  chosen  Surveyors  of  the  High  Way  for  the  year  ensuing. 
Messrs.  John  Lucas 

Edward  Tuckerman 
Edward  Edes 
Samuel  Smith 
John  Jenkins 
wei'e  chosen  Surveyors  of  Wheat  and  Flower  for  the  year  ensuing 
The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Committee  of  Correspondence,  Inspection  and  Safety. 
And  the  same  being  brought  in  and  sorted  it  Appeared  that 
[209.]  Messrs.  Nathaniel  Barber 

Edward  Proctor  Esqr. 
Cap'.  John  Pulling 
Ebenezer  Hancok  Esqr. 
Cap'.  Isaac  Phillips 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
Thomas  Melville  Esqr. 
Mr-.  John  Lucas  excused 

Abiel  Ruddock  Esqr. 
were  chosen  a  Committee  of  Correspondence  Inspection  &  Safety, 
for  the  year  ensuing. 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw,  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  four  Collectors  of  Taxes,  and  the  same  having  been 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Benjamin  Sumner  Jur.        ------       9fi  Votes 

James  Thompson --120 

Thomas  Bayley  ----------    153 

Alexander  Thomas  --------115 

were  chosen  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  the  year  ensuing. 

Voted,  that  two  and  one  half  p  Cent  be  and  hereby  is  allowed  to 
the  Persons  that  shall  be  chose  Collectors  of  Taxes  for  the  year 
ensuing,  on  all  such  sums  of  Money  as  they  shall  Collect,  pro- 
vided that  they  shall  conform  to  the  Act  and  Resolutions  of  the 


2\)S  City  Document  No.  80. 

General  Assembly  and  the  Votes  of  this  Town  ;  which  Premium 
appears  to  be  Just  and  equitable  and  an  Ample  Allowance  to  the 
Collectors  to  encourage  them  to  discharge  their  duty  with  deligence 
and  [210.]  Fidelity ;  provided  also  that  each  of  said  Collectors 
give  Bond  with  sufficient  Sureties  to  the  Satisfaction  of  the 
Selectmen,  for  the  faithfull  discharge  of  their  Duty  in  said  Office 
and  complying  with  this  Vote 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Collectors  of  Taxes  be  and  hereby 
are  enjoined  to  pay  into  the  County  and  Town  Treasuries  in  pro- 
portion as  they  shall  pay  into  the  State  Treasuery  from  Time  to 
Time 

The  Inhabitants  were  desired  to .  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  two  Selectmen  in  the  Room  of  Nathan  Frazier  Esqr.  & 
Cap*.  Gustavious  Fellows,  and  the  Same  having  been  brought  in 
and  sorted  it  Appeared,  that 

Deacon  Thomas  Greenough 

David  Jeffries  Esqr. 

were  chosen  Selectmen  for  the  year  ensuing 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  seven  Assessors,  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
sorted,  it  appeared  that 

Messrs.  William  Lowder 
Moses  May 
John  R.  Sigoney 
John  Pulling 
Barthw.  Kneeland 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 
Cap*.  William  Fleet 
were  chosen  Assessors  for  the  Year  ensuing 

[211.]  Voted,  that  the  Assessors  be  and  hereby  are  empow- 
ered and  directed  to  set  for  such  Abatements  of  Taxes,  as  they 
shall  Judge  reasonable  ten  days  following  the  date  and  delivery 
of  the  Tax  Bills  (Lords  days  excepted)  and  no  longer  saving  that 
they  be  allowed  to  set  two  days  the  last  Week  in  February  for  the 
Abatement  of  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons  as  had  not  an  oppertun- 
ity  of  applying  in  the  Above  limitted  Time  by  reason  of  their 
being  out  of  the  Commonwealth,  or  any  other  unavoidable  hin- 
drance, at  which  time  they  are  also  Allowed  and  impowered  to 
Abate  the  Taxes  of  such  Persons  as  may  have  died  Insolvent 
before  the  said  time  — 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant,  relative  to  making  Provision  for 
paying  the  Town  Creditors  Viz4.  "Whether  the  Town  will  make 
provision  for  paying  the  principal  and  Interest  due  to  such  of  their 
Creditors  as  are  in  want  of  their  Monies  "  —  being  read  —  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Treasurer  be  impowered  and  directed  to 
allow  the  Several  Creditors  of  the  Town  who  have  lent  Monies  to 
the  Town,  Interest  and  compound  Interest  on  the  Monies  lent 

Voted,  that  4  "Clock  be  Assigned  for  the  consideration  of  the 
Articles  in  the  Warrant  relative  to  Lands  on  the  Neck 


Boston   Town   Eecords,  1783.  299 

And  after  it  for  the  consideration  of  the  Articles  in  the  Warrant 
relative  to  new  Emission  Monies 

[212.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz1.  "  To  consider, 
weather  any  measures  shall  be  taken  for  the  better  regulation  of 
the  Cows  going  on  the  Common  of  this  Town  "  —  was  read  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  this  Matter  be  reffered  to  the  Selectmen,  and  they 
are  hereby  Authorised  and  impowered  to  raise  the  Sum  required 
for  providing  Bulls  &c  to  Six  Shillings  for  every  Cow  going  on 
the  Common 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.  "  Wether  the  Selectmen  in 
their  settling  with  the  Town  Clerk  may  not  Allow  him  on  Account 
of  the  high  price  of  the  Necessary s  of  Life,  in  proportion  with 
what  has  been  allowed  the  Other  Town  Officers  was  read  —  where- 
upon 

Voted,  that  Joseph  Barrell  Esqr. 
Mr.  John  Lowell 
Col0.  Joseph  Webb 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  this  Matter  and  Town  Clerks,  Ac- 
counts, and  report  at  the- Adjournment 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned  to  3  Clock  in  the  Afternoon. 

At  3  °Clock  P:  M  met  according  to  Adjournment 
[213.]     The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring 
in  their  Votes  for  Six  Constables  and  the  same  being  brought  in 
and  Sorted  it  Appeared  that  the  following  Persons  were  chose 

Viz'.  Mess".  John  Kemp  excused 

Alexander  Mc. Cloud  Sworn 

Abner  Rumnil     -------  d°. 

Rufus  Bent    --------  d°. 

George  Hamlin   -------  d°. 

Isaac  Wendell     -------  d°. 

were  chosen  Constables  for  the  ensuing  year 

The  following  Persons  were  chosen  Clerks  of  the  Market  for  the 
year  ensuing 

Viz1.  Cap*.  John  Wi'nslow  sworn 

v  Mr.  Robert  McNiel 

Mr.  Nathan  Spear  sworn 

Mr.  William  Hyslop d°. 

Mr.  Thomas  K.  Jones 

Samuel  Deming --        sworn 

Mr.  Lewis  Carnes  ---------  d°. 

Mr.  John  Brown d°. 

.  Mr.  William  Payne d°. 

Mr.  John  Amory d°. 

Mr.  William  Morrill d°. 

Mr.  Samuel  Gould 
Voted,  that  Major  Thomas  Melvill  excus'd 

Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
Herman  Brimmer  Esqr. 
Edward  Green  Esqr. 
Charles  Miller  Esqr. 
Samuel  Ruggles  Esqr. 


300  City  Document  No.  80. 

[314.]  be  and  hereby  are  Appointed  a  Committee  to  Audit  Ac- 
compts  of  Mr.  Peter  Boyer  Treasurer,  and  also  the  Accompt  of  the 
Overseers  of  the  Poor  and  the  said  Committee  are  iinpowered 
when  they  shall  Audit  said  Accompts,  to  allow  of  such  of  the 
Overseers  as  shall  have  Advanced  Monies  for  the  Relief  of  the 
Poor,  Interest  on  all  such  Sums  from  the  Time  so  Advanced 
uutill  they  have  Audited  said  Accompts ;  and  they  are  also  desired 
to  report  from  time  to  time  a  State  of  the  Treasurey  respecting  its 
debts  and  credits  and  on  an}'  Matter  that  they  may  think  proper 

And  the  Committee  are  also  directed  to  examine  the  Draughts 
of  the  Selectmen  " 

A  Motion  was  made  that  the  Consideration  of  Salaries  and 
Grants  be  refferred  over  to  the  General  Town  Meeting  in 
May  Next.  —  and  the  Question  being  put  it  Passed  in  the  Af- 
fermative. 

The  Selectmen  Reported,  on  the  Visitation  of  the  Schools  the 
last  Year  and  were  Appointed  Visitors  of  the  Schools  the  present 
Year. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "  Whether  the  Lands  on  the 
Neck  shall  be  leased  for  a  Certain  time,  or  otherwise  improved  by 
the  Town"  — was  read  wereupon  moved  that  the  consideration  of 
this  Article  be  reffered  [315.]  to  the  General  Town  Meeting  in 
May  Next,  —and  the  Question  being  put  passed  in  the  Negative 

It  was  then  Moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  Appointed  to 
take  this  Article  into  consideration  and  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment 

Voted,  that 

Col°.  Nath1.  Barber 
Col0.  Wm.  Tudor 
Joseph  Barrell  Esqr.  excused 
Cap'.  John  Ballard 
John  Lucas  Esqr. 
Col°.  Dawes  —  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  Aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz1.  "  Whether  the  Town  Treasurer 
shall  be  impowered  to  dispose  of  the  whole  or  any  part  of  the 
Emission  Monies  in  the  Treasurey: — was  read,  whereupon 
Moved, 

That  the  Town  Treasurer  be  and  he  hereby  is  Authorised  and 
impowered  to  dispose  of  the  New  Emission  Money  in  the  Treasurey 
on  the  best  Terms  he  can 

And  the  Question  being  put  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

Moved,  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall  be  to  Tuesday 
Fortnight  at  3'0  Clock  P.M  being  the  25—1118'. 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


[210.]     Tuesday  March  25th—  3.  O  Clock  in  the  Afternoon  — 
Town  met  according  to  Adjournment 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  one  other  Person  be  Added  to  the  four 
Hogreeves  chosen  for  the  Year  ensuing —  whereupon 

Mr.  .John  Skinner 
was  chosen  a  Hogreeve  for  the  year  ensuing 


Boston   Town   Records,   1783.  301 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  one  Constable  —  and  the  same  being  brought  in  and 
Sorted,  it  Appeared  that 

Mr.  Robert  Brick 
was  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  year  ensuing 

AT.  Joseph  Prince  chosen  one  of  the  Scavingers  for  Ward  N°.  3. 
having  desired  the  Town  to  excuse  him  from  serving  in  that  Office, 
he  was  accordingly  excused. 

AT.   Elkanah  Hayden 
was  chosen  a  Scavinger  for  the  year  ensuing  for  Ward  N°.  3. 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  one  more  be  Added  to  the  Persons 
chosen  Surveyers  of  Boards 

AT.  William  Alexander 
was  chosen  a  Surveyor  of  Boards  for  the  year  ensuing 

The  Committee  on  the  Article  in  the  Warr'.  Viz*.  "  To  con- 
sider whether  the  Selectmen  in  their  settling  with  the  Town  Clark 
may  not  allow  him  [217.]  on  Account  of  the  high  price  of  the 
Necessaries  of  Life,  in  proportion  with  what  has  been  allowed  the 
Other  Town  Officers,"  —  Reported  as  follows,  Viz'.  The  Com- 
mittee Appointed  by  the  Town  for  the  purposes  Above  mentioned, 
are  fully  of  Opinion  that  the  Selectmen  in  Settling  with  the  Town 
Clerk,  allow  him  on  Account  of  the  high  prices  of  the  Necessaries 
of  Life,  in  proportion  with  what  has  been  allowed  the  School- 
masters 

Joseph  Barrel  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered — the 
Question  was  put  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted 
Passed  in  the  Affirmative 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  devise  the  Necessary  Means  of 
removing  the  disorders  of  the  Market  and  other  Nuisances,  beg 
Leave  to  report. 

Ist  That  for  the  future  in  their  Opinion  it  will  be  highly  for  the 
Interest  of  the  Inhabitants  in  General,  that  proper  places  be 
Assigned  for  the  different  Markets  for  Wood,  Hay,  &c,  as  the 
Square  contigueous  to  Faneuil  Hall  delinated  in  the  Annexed  plan, 
be  still  Approbiated  [_sic]  as  the  Most  convenient  spot  for  the  great 
Alarket  of  Flesh,  Vegetables,  &c. 

2d.  That  the  Part  of  Common  Street  between  the  Grainery  and 
the  North  end  of  the  Burying  Ground  Adjoining ;  as  also  the  Old 
North  Square,  be  the  Places  for  the  Wood  Alarketts  for  all  the 
Wood  brought  by  land  into  this  Town  for  Sale. 

[218.]  3dly  That  the  Space  near  Olivers  Dock  be  Assigned  as 
a  Markett  place  for  Hay,  that  is  for  all  hay  brought  by  Land  for 
Sale  into  this  Town. 

4thly  That  the  dock  be  filled  up  as  far  as  the  swing  Bridge  and  if 
any  Private  Property  be  injured  the  owners  thereof  be  compen- 
sated for  their  loss. 

5thly.  That  an  inspector  of  the  Marketts  be  annually  Chosen  by  the 
Town  to  see  the  several  by  Laws  and  Orders  of  the  Town  properly 
enforced  as  far  as  they  respect  the  Marketts,  and  that  this  Officer 
be  allowed  an  Adequate  reward  for  his  Services. 


302  City  Document  No.  80. 

gthiy  That  the  following  by  Laws  be  recommended  to  the  Town 
as  of  indispensible  Necessity,  to  give  effect  to  the  Preceding 
regulations. 

7thly  That  the  Scavengers  be  enjoined  by  the  Town  to  the  utmost 
to  exert  the  Power  with  which  they  are  invested  for  the  suppression 
&  prevention  of  those  Nuisances  which  at  present  are  a  disgrace 
to  our  Police,  and  if  not  removed,  by  contaminating  the  Air,  must 
contribute  to  produce  the  Most  fatal  disorders  among  the  In- 
habitants. —  And  in  Order  the  more  effectually  to  remedy  this 
mischief  It  is  earnestly  enjoined  upon  the  Inhabitants  to  give  the 
earliest  information  to  the  proper  Officers  of  all  or  any  Nuisances 
that  the  proper  and  legal  Methods  may  be  forthwith  taken  for 
their  removal.  — 

[219.]  By  Laws,  for  the  Appointment  and  Regulation,  of  the 
several  Markett  places  in  the  Town  of  Boston. 

Whereas,  it  frequently  happens  that  Persons,  who  vend  Hay, 
Wood,  Meat,  Vegetables,  and  other  Articles  of  Supplies  in  this 
Town,  Assemble  and  stand  with  their  Carts,  Teams,  Sleds, 
Sleighs,  Waggons  &  Horses,  in  some  or  Other  of  the  Publick 
Streets,  to  the  great  annoyance  of  the  Neighbourhood  where  such 
stand  is  made,  and  to 'the  Danger  of  the  Lives  and  Limbs  of  those 
who  Attempt  to  pass  them :  And  whereas  it  is  highly  convenient 
and  necessary  for  the  General  Good,  that  in  all  Populous  Towns, 
the  Publick  Streets  thereof  should  be  freely  passable  at  all  times, 
and  that  certain  Publick  places,  be  set  apart  for  the  Stand  of 
those  who  supply  the  Inhabitants  thereof  with  Provisions  &  other 
Articles  of  Consumption. 

It  is  therefor  Voted,  and  Ordered.  — That  the  lower  floor  of 
Faneuil  Hall  and  the  Land  around  the  same  (as  laid  out  and 
marked  in  A  plan  this  day  Approved  and  Adopted  by  the  Town) 
be  the  Common  Markett  place  for  the  Sail  of  all  kinds  of  Meat, 
Vegetables  or  Grain  &c.  —  the  several  parts  thereof  to  be  used 
and  improved  respectively  for  the  purposes  mentioned  in  the 
aforesaid  plan  [220.]  And  whoever  shall  use  or  improve  any 
part  of  said  Markett  place  to  a  different  purpose  than  is  Assigned 
in  said  plan  After  being  directed  by  the  Inspector  of  the  Markets 
to  his  proper  place,  and  without  special  permission  first  had  & 
Obtained  from  the  Inspector  of  the  Markett,  shall  forfit  and  pay 
the  Sum  of  Six  shillings  for  every  such  Offence. 

And  if  any  Person  or  Persons  bringing  Meat,  Vegetables  or 
Grain  to  Markett  shall  be  found  standing  in  any  other  Publick 
Street  of  the  Town,  with  his  or  their  Team,  Cart,  Sled,  Sleigh, 
Waggon,  or  Horse  with  Meat,  Vegetables,  or  Grain,  therewith 
(except  while  being  stopt'd  by  some  person  offering  to  purchase 
the  same  or  detained  by  some  accident)  he  shall  forfit  and  pay  the 
Sum  of  Eight  shillings  for  every  such  Offence. 

2d  It  is  further  Ordered,  That  Common  Street  so  called  extending 
from  the  Granary  to  the  North  End  of  the  Common  Burying  Place 
on  the  West  Side  of  said  Street,  and  also  the  Old  North  Square  so 
called,  be  and  they  are  hereby  set  apart  and  known  as  Wood 
Marketts,  where  it  shall  be  lawful  for  all  Persons  bringing  Wood, 
loads  of  barrells  Empty  or  full,  or  Hoops  to  Marketts  to  Assemble 


Boston   Town   Records,  1783.  303 

and  stand  with  their  Teams,  Carts,  Sleds  &  Waggons  for  the  pur- 
pose of  vending  the  Same  [221.]  And  if  any  Person  or  Persons, 
bringing  Wood,  Hoops,  or  Empty  or  full  Barrells  to  Market  shall 
be  found,  standing  in  any  Other  Publick  Streets  of  the  Town  with  his 
or  their  Team,  Cart,  Sled,  or  Waggon  loaded  with  any  of  the  afore- 
said Articles  (except  while  being  stoped  by  some  persons  offering 
to  Purchase  the  Same,  or  detained  by  some  Accident)  he  shall 
forfit  &  pay  the  Sum  of  Ten  shillings  for  every  such  offence. 

3d.  And  it  is  further  Ordered,  That  the  Open  space  at  the  bottom 
of  Water  Street  near  Olivers  Dock,  be  and  it  hereby  is  set  apart 
and  Appropriated  as  a  Hay  Markett ;  where  it  shall  be  Lawf  ull 
for  all  Persons  bringing  Hay  to  Markett  to  Assemble  and  stand 
with  their  Teams,  Carts,  Sleds  and  Waggons  for  the  purpose  of 
vending  the  Same.  —  And  if  any  Person  or  Persons  shall  be  found 
standing  in  any  other  Streets  of  the  Town,  with  his  or  their 
Team,  Cart,  Sled  or  Waggon  loaded  with  Hay  (excepting  at  the 
place  of  weighing,  &  except  while  being  Stopt'd  by  some  Persons 
offering  to  purchase  the  same,  or  detained  by  some  Accident)  he 
shall  forfit  and  pay  the  Sum  of  Twelve  shillings  for  every  such 
Offence. — 

4th.  It  is  further  Ordered.  —  That  no  Person,  or  Persons, 
bringing  Meat,  Vegetables,  Grain,  Wood,  Hay  or  any  other 
Articles  of  Supplies  [222.]  to  Market  shall  presume  to  stop 
and  sell  or  Offer  for  sale  any  such  Articles  within  the  Limits 
of  Dock  Square  or  in  any  of  the  Avenues  or  Streets  leading 
directly  from  State  Street  now  so  called  into  the  Common  Market 
place  or  Dock  Square  aforesaid,  under  the  Penalty  of  six  shill- 
ings for  every  such  Offence 

And  in  order  that  Persons  may  not  be  encouraged  &  Counte- 
nanced in  the  Violation  of  the  aforesaid  Orders  &  By  Laws. 

5tMy.  It  is  further  Ordered  —  That  every  Person  Inhabiting 
this  Town,  who  shall  buy  or  Offer  to  buy  any  Meats,  Vegetables 
Grain,  Wood,  Hay  or  any  other  Articles  of  Supplies,  brought  to 
Market  for  Sale  of  any  Person  or  Persons  standing  and  Offering 
the  same  for  Sale  in  any  other  Streets  or  parts  of  this  Town  than 
is  herein  respectively  Assigned  them  for  that  purpose,  or  shall  buy 
or  offer  to  buy  any  of  said  Articles  of  any  Person  or  Persons 
whatsoever  within  the  limits  of  Dock  Square  or  in  any  of  the 
Avenues  or  Streets  leading  directly  from  State  Street  into  the 
Common  Market  place  or  Dock  Square  Aforesaid,  shall  forfit  and 
pay  the  Sum  of  Six  shillings  for  every  such  Offence. 

And  to  the  end  that  the  foregoing  Orders  &  By-Laws  may  not 
like  others  heretofore  be  [223.]  rendered  ineffectual  nugatory 
by  Remissness  and  inattention  to  the  execution  thereof  —  but  be 
carried  into  rigorous  Effect. 

6thly.  It  is  hereby  further  Ordered,  That  there  be  Annually  chosen 
from  among  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  some  Active  Spirited  and 
faithfult  Person,  who  shall  be  called  the  Inspector  of  the  Markets, 
whose  Duty  it  shall  be  to  carry  the  severall  By-Laws  and  Orders 
of  the  Town  touching  the  arrangement  of  the  severall  Markets 
into  constant  Effect  —  And  in  Order  thereto  he  shall  make  it  his 
daily  employment  to  pass  through  the  several  Market  Places,  the 


304  City  Document  No.  80. 

Avenues  leading  thereto,  and  the  Several  Publick  Streets  :  and  if  the 
Inspector  of  the  Markets  shall  find  any  Person  or  Persons,  stand- 
ing Avith  his  or  their  Carts,  Teames,  Sleds,  Sleighs,  Waggons  or 
Horses  loaded  with  meats,  Vegetables,  Grain,  Wood,  Hay  &c. 
as  aforesaid  in  any  of  the  Streets  in  Violation  of  the  aforesaid 
Bv-Law,  upon  view  thereof  he  shall  Order  &  direct  the  Offender 
to  Repair  to  the  Market  place  Assigned  for  the  Sale  of  the 
Articles  he  may  have  &  on  his  refusal,  the  said  Inspector  of  the 
Marketts  shall  forthwith  Complain  against  snch  Persons  to  some 
[234.]  Justice  of  the  Piece  that  he  may  find  Agreeable  to  the 
foregoing  By-Laws.  —  And  it  shall  be  the  Duty  of  the  said 
Inspector  of  the  Markets  to  complain  in  Manner  as  aforesaid 
against  all  Breaches  of  Any  of  the  Aforesaid  By-Laws  which  shall 
come  to  his  knowledge,  either  by  his  own  View,  or  the  Informa- 
tion of  any  other  Citizen  —  And  it  shall  further  be  the  Duty  of 
said  Inspector  of  the  Markets,  to  keep  the  several  Market 
places  continually  clean  and  free  from  all  kinds  of  filth  &  Dirt ; 
and  to  remove  all  Nusances  therefrom. 

7th.  And  to  the  end  that  said  Inspector  of  the  Market  may  be 
induced  to  perform  his  Duty  with  chearfullness  and  Integrity,  It  is 
Ordered  that  he  shall  have  an  Adequate  and  reasonable  reward 
for  his  Service. 

8th.  It  is  further  Ordered,  That  all  Penalties  &  forfeitures 
Arising  by  any  breaches  of  the  foregoing  By-Laws,  shall  go  and 
be  to  the  use  of  the  Town,  and  be  Approbiated  to  the  support  and 
maintance  of  the  Several  Markets,  aforesaid  —  By  Order  of  the 
Committee. 

Charles  Jarvis 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  Para- 
graph by  Paragraph ;  was  Accepted  by  the  Town  &  the  Plan 
Mentioned  in  said  Report  was  Adopted  by  the  Town. 

[225.]  Moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Committee  be  Appointed  to 
carry  this  Report  into  Execution 

Also  Voted,  that 

Charles  Jarvis  Esqr. 
Joseph  Barrell  Esqr. 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Mr.  Samuel  Elliot  (excused) 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1",  excused 
be  a  Committee  for   the  purpose  aforesaid    &    they  are  also  Au- 
thorised and  impowered  to  confir  with  the  Abutters  on  the  Dock 
relative  to  the  tittle  &  property  of  the  Land  or  any  priviledges  in 
the  said  Dock,  as  also  with  Respect  to  any  Compensation. 

The  Committee  relative  to  Lands  on  the  Neck  having  Reported, 
it  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  said  Report  be 
referred  to  next  May  Meeting,  and  that  the  Town  be  then  Notified 
thereof  in  the  Warrant  then  to  be  essued  for  said  Meeting 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  a  late  Motion  for  the 
Change  of  the  Institution  of  the  Annavcrsary  on  the  5th.  of  March, 
reported  as  follows  Viz1. 


Boston   Tov/n  Keoords,  1783.  305 

Whereas  the  Annual  Celebration  of  the  Boston  Massacre  on  the 
5th.  of  March  1770,  by  the  Institution  of  a  Publick  Oration 
[226.]  has  been  found  to  be  of  eminent  Advantage  to  the  Cause 
of  America  in  disseminating  the  Principles  of  Virtue  and  Patriot- 
ism among  her  Citizens ;  And  whereas  the  immediate  Motives 
which  induced  the  commemoration  of  that  day,  do  now  no  longer 
exist  in  their  primitive  force ;  while  the  Benefits  resulting  from  the 
Institution  to,  may  and  ought  to  be  forever  preserved,  by  exchang- 
ing that  Anniversary  for  Another,  the  foundation  of  which  will 
last  as  long  as  time  endures.  It  is  therefore  Resolved,  that  the 
Celebration  of  the  fifth  of  March  from  henceforwards  shall  cease  ; 
and  that  instead  thereof  the  Anniversary  of  the  4th.  Day  of  July 
A.D.  1776  (a  Day  ever  memorable  in  the  Annals  of  this  Country 
for  the  declaration  of  our  Independance)  shall  be  constantly 
celebrated  by  the  Delivery  of  a  Publick  Oration,  in  such  place  as 
the  Town  shall  determiue  to  be  most  convenient  for  the  purpose  — 
In  which  the  Orator  shall  consider  the  feelings,  manners  &  principles 
which  led  to  this  great  National  Event  as,  well  as  the  important 
and  happy  Effects  whether  general  or  domestick,  which  already 
have,  and  will  forever  continue  to  flow  from  this  Auspicious 
Epoch.  — 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  &  considered,  it  was 
Voted,  that  the  same  be  [227.]  Accepted,  And  that  a  Committee 
be  now  Appointed  to  provide  an  Orator  to  deliver  an  Oration  on 
the  4th  of  July  Next  Agreeable  to  said  report,  Also.  —  Voted,  that 
Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
Honble.   Samuel  Adams  Esq1". 
Honble.  James  Sullivan  Esqr. 
William  Tudor  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  Aforesaid 

John  Kemp  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  year  ensuing  having  de- 
sired to  be  excused  from  serving  in  that  Office  he  was  Accordingly 
excused. 

Moved,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  be  to  next 
Monday  sennight  —  3  °Clock  P.M. — And  it  was  Adjourned 
Accordingly 

Monday  the  7th.  Day  of  April  3  O  Clock  Afternoon  —  Town  met 
according  to  Adjournment 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  in  the  Chair 
Mr.  John  Cade  chosen  Scavinger  for  Ward  N°.  1  for  the  ensuing 
year  having  desired,  to  be  excused  from  serving  in  that  Office  — 
he  was  accordingly  excused 

Mr.  Samuel  Clough 
was  chosen  a  Scavinger  for  the  ensuing  year  for  Ward  N°  1 

[228.]  Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  one  of  the  Committee  relative  to 
Incumbrances  on  the  Dock  &  having  desired  to  be  excused  from 
serving  he  was  accordingly  excused 

Deacon  Newel 
was  appointed  one  of  the  Committee  relative  to  the  Dock  in  the 
room  of  Mr.  Price 


306  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  one  Constable  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in  and 
sorted  it  Appeared  that 

Mr.  Calvin  White  —  excused 
was  chosen  Constable  for  the  year  ensuing 

Moved  and  seconded,  that  a  Committee  be  now  Appointed  to 
consider  and  Report  proper  Instructions  for  the  Committee  of 
Correspondence  Inspection  and  Safet}7  of  this  Town  —  After  some 
debate  the  Question  was  put  Viz4.  Whether  such  a  Committee  shall 
be  now  Appointed  by  the  Town — And  the  Question  being  ac- 
cordingly put  —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 
Voted,  that  the 

Honble.  Sam1.  Adams  Esqr. 
Honble.  James  Otis  Esqr. 
Joseph  G-reenleaf  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

[239.]  Mr.  William  McFadden 

chosen  a  Hogreeve  for  the  year  ensuing  having  desired  to  be  ex- 
cused from  Serving  in  that  Office,  he  was  accordingly — excused, 

Mr.  Timothy  Conner 
was  chosen  Hogreeve  for  the  Year  ensuing 

Mr.  Calvin  White 
chosen  one  of  the  Constables  for  the  year  having  desired  to  be  ex- 
cused from  serving  in  that  Office,  he  was  accordingly  excused  by 
the  Town 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  one  Constable,  but  no  Votes  were  brought  in 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  Consider  what  directions  were 
necessary  to  be  given  the  Committee  of  Correspondence,  Inspec- 
tion and  Safety — Reported  the  following  Resolve — Viz'. 

Whereas  by  a  Resolve  of  the  Legislature  of  this  Commonwealth 
passed  on  the  thirteenth  of  February  Seventeen  huudred  seventy 
Six,  the  several  Towns  were  directed  and  impowered  at  their 
Annuale  Meetings  in  March  to  choose  a  Committee  of  Correspond- 
ence Inspection  and  Safety,  whose  bussiness  (among  other  things) 
is  to  Communicate  matters  of  Importance  to  Committees  of  the 
Same  denominations,  to  any  Other  Town  County  or  States,  or  to 
the  General  Assembly  or  Council.  And  whereas  the  present  Cir- 
cumstances of  the  United  States  require  that  Committees  so  Ap- 
pointed should  use  their  utmost  industry  &  Care  [230.]  to 
effect  the  great  &  important  purposes  of  their  Appointment,  at  a 
time  when  interest  is  making  for  the  readmitting  Absentees  and 
Conspirators  to  return  into  this  and  other  of  the  United  States  — 
therefor 

Resolved — -That  This  Town  will  at  all  times  (as  they  have 
done)  to  the  utmost  of  their  power,  oppose  every  Enemy  to  the 
Just  Rights  and  Liberties  of  Mankind  :  And  that  after  so  wicked 
a  Conspiracy  against  those  Rights  and  Liberties  by  certain  In- 
grates,  Most  of  them  Natives  of  these  States,  and  who  have  been 
Refugees  and  declared  Traitors  to  their  Country  —  It  is  the  Opin- 
ion of  this  Town,  that  they  ought  never  to  be  suffered  to  return, 
but  be  excluded  from  having  Lot  or  Portion  among  us 


Boston  Town  Records,  1783.  307 

And  the  Committee  of  Correspondence  are  hereby  requested  as 
by  the  Law  of  this  Commonwealth  they  are  fully  impowered,  to 
write  to  the  Several  Towns,  in  this  Commonwealth,  and  desire 
them  to  come  into  the  same  or  Similar  Resolves,  if  they  shall 
think  fit 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  Considered  the 
Question  was  put — viz1.  Whether  this  Report  shall  be  accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affirmative 

It  was  then  moved  and  Voted  that  the  aforegoing  Resolves  or 
Report  of  the  Committee  [231.]  be  published  in  the  Publick 
News  Papers 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  shall  be  Adjourned,  it 
shall  be  to  the  same  Day  of  the  May  Meeting.  3.  O  Clock  in  the 
Afternoon  — 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly 

Adjourned 


At  a  Meetiug  of  the  Male  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston 
of  twenty  one  Years  of  Age  &  upwards  qualified  as  the  Constitu- 
tion prescribes,  and  legally  warned  in  Publick  Town  Meeting 
Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  7th.  Day  of  April 
Anno  Domini  1783 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Joseph  Eckly 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

Paragraphs  of  the  Constitution  or  form  of  Goverment  relative 
to  the  choice  of  Goyernor  Lieve4.  Governor  and  Six  Senators,  for 
the  County  of  Suffolk  were  also  read 

On  a  Motion  Voted, 

That  the  Town  will  now  come  to  the  choice  of  a  Governor 
Lievetenant  Governor  and  six  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk 

[232.]  It  was  then  declared  by  the  Selectmen  that  no  Votes 
would  be  received  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they  Pur- 
pose the  Poll  should  be  closed  at  One  O  Clock 

It  was  then  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Bells  in  the  Town  be  set 
a  ringing  at  half  past  twelve  O'Clock 

Persons  Voted  for  as  Governor  with  the  numbers  of  Votes  for 
each  Person.  Viz*.  His  Excellency  John  Hancock  Esqr.  seven 
hundred  &  forty  seven  Votes  —         Persons 

Voted,  for  as  Governor 

Votes. 

Honble.  James  Bowdoin  Esqr.  60 

Honble.  Benjamin  Lincoln  Esqr.  52 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Lieutenant  Governor  with  the  Number  of 
Votes  for  each  Person,  Viz(. 

Votes. 

His  Honor  Thomas  Gushing  Esqr.  724 

Honble.  Elbridge  Gerry  Esqr. 105 

Honble.  Azor  Orne  Esqr.      -     - 1 

Honble.  James  Warren  Esqr.     ------  2 

Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esq1".    ------  1 

Persons  Voted,  for  as  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk,  with 
the  number  of  Votes  for  each  Person  —  Viz1, 


308  City  Document  No.  80. 

Votes. 

Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr. 823 

Honble  Jeremiah  Powell  Esq1". 732 

[233.]       Honble.  Caleb  Davis  Esqr. 812 

Honble.  Cotton  Tufts  Esqr.  - 816 

Honble.  Jabez  Fisher  Esqr. 704 

Ebenezer  Wales  Esqr.     -     -     - 785 

Honble.  John  Pitts  Esq1'. 176 

Honble.  Samuel  Dexter    --- 125 

Honble.  Samuel  Nyles 23 

Honble.  Robert  T.  Payne 1 

Honble.  James  Sullivan   --------  10 

Honble.  Benjamin  Austin  Esq1'. 9 

Honble.  William  Phillips 21 

Honble.  Benjamin  White  Esq1'.       -----  4 

Honble.  James  Otis  Esq1'. 6 

John  Lowel  Esqr. 3 

John  Rowe  Esqr.  --- 7 

Samuel  Barret  Esqr.  --          2 

John  Barret  Esqr.            _-_____.  2 

Richard  Cranch  Esqr. 6 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr.        --------  3 

Solomon  Lovel  Esqr.       --------  4 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr.    -------  1 

Attested  Copies  of  the  Persons  Voted  for  as  Governor  Luive- 
tanant  Governor  &  Senators  for  the  County  of  Suffolk,  were  com- 
mitted to  the  Secretary  of  this  Commonwealth,  and  the  Inclosures 
sealed  up  in  Town  Meeting,  Superscribed  as  follows.  Viz'. 
For 
John  Avery  Junr.  Esqr. 

Secretary  of  the  Commonwealth 
of  Massachusetts 

[234.]     The  Number  of  Votes  of  the  Town  of  Boston  for  a 
Governor  Lievetenant  Governor  and  Six  Seuators  for  the  County 
of  Suffolk  Certified  within  and  sealed  up  in  Town  Meeting 
Then  the  Meeting  was 
disolved 


At  an  Adjournment  of  the  March  Meeting  to  this  Day,  the  In- 
habitants met  according  to  Adjournment  at  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
in  the  Chair 

Mr.  Zipheon  Thayer  chosen  one  of  the  Scavingers  for  the  year 
ensuing  having  desired  the  Town  to  Excuse  him  from  serving  in 
that  Office,  he  was  accordingly  excused 

Mr.  Christopher  Clark  —  (excused)  —  was  chosen  a  Scavinger 
for  the  year  ensuing. 

Mr.  Clark  having  appeared  and  prayed  the  Town  to  excuse  him 
from  serving  in  that  Office  the  Year  ensuing  —  he  was  accordingly 
excused 

Cap1.  Gilbert  W.  Speakman —  (Sworn)  — was  chosen  a  Scavin- 
ger for  the  Year  ensuing  for  Ward  N°.  9 


Boston  Town  Records,   1783.  309 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  then- 
Votes,  for  one  Constable  —  and  the  same  having  been  brought  in 
and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

Mr.  Barth0.  Broders 
was  chosen  a  Constable  for  the  Year  ensuing 

[235.]  Moved  and  Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  things  which 
remain  unfinished  at  this  Meeting  be  and  they  hereby  are  referred 
over  to  the  May  Meeting 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be    and  hereby 
are  given  to  Ezekiel  Price  Esq1',  for  his  good  services  as  Moderator 
Then  the  Meeting;  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  Other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Fanieul  Hall  on  Tuesday  the  6th  Day  of 
May  Anno  Domini  1783  10.  O'Clock  in  the  Forenoon 

Prayer  was  made  by  the  Revd.  Mr.  Clark 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

That  part  of  the  Constitution  or  Form  of  Government  which 
relates  to  the  choice  of  Representatives  —  read 

Sundry  Laws  to  be  read  at  the  May  Meeting  —  were  accordingly 

—  read 

The  Town  having  determined  to  choose  Seven  Persons  to  Rep- 
resent them  in  the  General  Court  of  Massachusetts  to  be  held  at 
the  State  House  in  Boston  [236.]  upon  the  last  Wednesday  of 
May  Current  Agreeable  to  the  Constitution  or  Frame  of  Govern- 
ment of  the  Massachusetts  —  The  Inhabitants  were  accordingly 
directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their  Votes  for  Seven  Repre- 
sentatives, and  then  it  was  declared  by  the  Selectmen,  that  no 
Votes  would  be  received,  but  such  as  are  unfolded,  and  that  they 
purpose  the  Poll  shall  be  closed  at  twelve  O. Clock 

The  Votes  being  brought  in  for  Seven  Representatives,  the 
Number  of  the  same  were  found  to  be  three  hundred  seventy  eight 

—  and  upon  sorting  them  it  Appeared  that  the  following  Gentel- 
men  were  chosen  by  a  Majority  of  said  Votes — Viz'. 

Votes 

The  Honble.  William  Phillips  Esqr.    --------  337 

Honble.  John  Pitts  Esqr. -     .     -  310 

Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 264 

Honble.  Caleb  Davis  Esqr.      ---------  303 

Thomas  Daws  Esq1".     -----------361 

Thomas  Walley  Esqr. 225 

Honble.  James  Sullivan  Esqr. -  244 

Adjourned  to  Four  O  Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

4  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon  Town  met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment 

The  choice  of  Representatives  [237.]  being  over  and  declared 
by  the  Selectmen  the  Inhabitants,  were  directed  to  withdraw  and 
bring  in  their  Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  in  order  that 
the  Town  may  proceed  in  transacting  the  other  Affairs  mentioned 


310  City  Document  No.   80. 

in  the  Warrant ;  accordingly  the  Inhabitants  withdrew  and  brought 
in  their  Votes,  and  upon  sorting  them  it  Appeared,  that 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr.  —  (excused) 
was  chosen  Moderator. 

Mr.  Price  having  informed  the  Town  that  he  was  prevented 
from  giving  his  Attendance  the  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  with- 
draw and  bring  in  their  Votes,  for  another  Moderator  and  the 
same  being  brought  in  and  sorted  it  appeared  that 

Thomas  Daws  Esq1. 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  the  Meeting 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  a  Comittee  be  now  chosen  to  draw  up 
and  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  a  Draught  of  In- 
structions for  the  Gentlemen  who  Represent  this  Town  in  the 
General  Assembly. 

Voted,  that  the  Honble.  Sam:   Adams  Esqr. 
Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
Honble.  James  Lovel  Esq1'. 

[238.]       .         Dr.  Charles  Jarvis 

Joseph  Greenleaf  Esqr. 
be  appointed  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid. 

Mr.  Thomas  Walley  chosen  one  of  our  Representatives  in  the 
General  Court  having  in  writing  declined  Serving  as  a  Represent- 
ative he  was  accordingly  excused  by  the  Town. 

The  Moderator  lade  before  the  Town  a  Letter  he  had  received 
from  the  Honble.  William  Philips  Esqr.  —  which  was  read. 

The  Committee  relative  to  Lands  on  the  Neck,  being  Appointed 
by  the  Town  to  consider  the  Situation  of  said  Lands,  and  what 
improvement  can  be  made  of  these  Reported  —  and  the  said  Re- 
port having  been  read  &  considered,  and  also  announced  by  the 
Town  was  Accepted  as  follows  Viz1 . 

That  the  Selectmen  be  impowered  to  lease  (for  as  short  a  time 
as  they  can  agree  on)  to  Mr.  Nathaniel  Curtis  or  any  other  person 
a  Piece  of  Beach  Land  measuring  Ninety  five  feet  more  or  less  in 
length  and  lying  between  the  Land  and  Wharff  of  said  Curtis  and 
the  Northeast  Corner  of  the  Fortification  and  such  part  of  the 
Land  Adjoining  as  the  Selectmen  shall  think  proper  on  condition 
that  such  Persons  shall  Covenant  to  Erect  a  Subestantial  Sea  Wall 
of  Stone,  five  feet  [239.]  high  with  a  good  Capston  Top,  to  run 
from  said  Curtis's  ;  Wharff  to  the  Northeast  Corner  aforesaid,  and 
be  filled  in  with  dirt  so  as  to  level  the  Ground  from  said  Wall  to 
the  Street,  and  have  the  same  compleated  by  the  first  Day  of  No- 
vember next  ensuing 

That  it  is  of  immediate  importance  to  the  preservation  of  the 
Lands  remaining,  on  the  Easterly  side  of  the  Neck  that  a  Stone 
Wall  be  built  as  soon  as  possible  to  extend  from  the  Southerly 
Corner  of  the  Wood  Work  of  the  Fortification  to  the  head  of 
the  Dam  containing  About  one  Thousand  feet  in  Length,  and 
that  all  the  Ground  within  said  Wall  be  made  level  with  the 
Pavement. 

And  in  order  to  have  this  most  necessary  work  speedily  and 
effectually  executed,  the  Town  impower  the  Selectmen  to  lay  out 
the  Lands  included  in  the  Above  Boundaries  into  Lots  of  Sixty 


Boston  Town  Records,  1783.  311 

feet  each  in  Front  and  running  to  said  Wall,  and  to  execute 
Sufficient  Deeds  of  Bargain  and  Sale  of  every  other  of  said  Lots 
to  such  Person,  or  Persons  as  will  contracte  for  themselves  and 
Heirs  to  Erect  and  forever  maintain  said  Wall,  and  preserve  the 
Ground  lying  within  said  Limits  from  Decay. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  Whether  the  Town  will  take 

any  other  or  further  Measures  for  preventing  or  removing  [240.] 

any  Incumbrances  or  Nusauces  as  well  on  the  Common  as  in  the 

Streets  Lanes  or  High  Ways  of  the  Town  was  read  —  whereupon. 

Voted,  that  W"1.  Tudor    ------   (excused) 

HonbIe.  James  Sullivan  Esqr. 

Josiah  Waters 

Mr.  John  Lowel     --------    excused 

Thos.  Daws  Jun1'.  Esq1. 
be  and  hereby  are  Appointed  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  afore- 
said and  they  hereby  are  Authorised  and  impowered  to  Confer 
with  the  Abutors  on  the  Town  Dock  relative  to  the  Title  and 
Property  of  the  Lands,  or  any  Privileges  in  the  said  Dock,  as  also 
with  respect  to  any  Compensation  —  And  to  Report  at  the 
Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

Mr.  Samuel  Eliot  Appointed  one  of  the  Committee  for  filling  up 
the  Dock  having  desired  the  Town  to  excuse  him  from  serving  on 
that  Committee  he  was  accordingly  excused. 

Mr.  Henry  Prentice  was  chosen  one  of  the  Committee  for  the 
purpose  aforesaid 

Moved  that  the  foregoing  Committee  for  filling  up  the  Dock  -  - 
Viz'. 

Charles  Jarvis  Esqr. 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
Thomas  Dawes  Esqr. 

T241.]  Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 

Deacon  Timothy  Newell 
Mr.  Henry  Prentice 
be  desired  to  proceed  in  that  Business,  and  in  making  the  Head 
and  carrying  out  the  Draines  which  run  into  the  Dock,  in  Order 
for  the  immediate  filling  up  the  same  upon  the  best  terms  that 
may  be  ;  and  also  fixing  the  Rails  and  Posts  for  the  better  accom- 
modation of  the  Market  People  ;  and  that  the  Expencies  of  the 
same  be  paid  out  of  the  next  Town  Tax. 

And  the  Question  being  Accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the 
Affermative. 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the  Committee  Appointed  to  prepare  a 
Draught  of  Instructions  for  the  Gentlemen  who  Represent  this 
Town  in  the  General  Court ;  have  an  Article  in  said  Draught, 
Viz'. —  That  when  the  Representatives  are  met  in  General  Court 
they  pray  leave  of  the  House  in  behalf  of  the  Town,  to  bring  in  a 
Bill  for  removing  Newsauces  and  Incumbrances  from  Dock  Square 
and  elsewhere,  and  also  regulating  the  Market. 

Moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  Notefy 
in  the  News  Papers  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting,  at  which  it 
will  be   considered  whether   the  Town  will  then  proceed  to  the 


312  City  Document  No.  80. 

Choice  of  [243.]  two  Representatives  in  the  room  of  the  Gentel- 
meu  who  have  resigned  or  declined  serving 

Adjourned  to  Tuesday  next  being  the  13th.  Day  of  May,  10. 
0  Clock  in  the  Forenoon 

May  13th.  10.  O  Clock  Forenoon  Met  According  to  Adjournment. 
The  Selectmen  presided 

The  Town  took  into  consideration 

Whether  a  Gentelman  should  now  be  chosen  to  Represent  the 
Town  in  the  General  Assembly  of  this  Commonwealth  in  the  room 
of  Mr.  Thomas  Walley  who  has  declined  serving  —  and  it  having 
been  determined  to  choose  one  Gentelman  in  the  Room  of  the  said 
Mr.  Walley  who  has  resigned  —  It  was  then  moved  that  the  choice 
of  a  Representative  be  refferred  to  the  Afternoon,  and  that  it  is 
proposed  that  the  Poll  be  closed  at  4  0  Clock  Afternoon. 
Col0.  Daws  took  the  Chair. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  prepare  &  to  Audit  Accounts  of  Mr. 
Boyer  Town  Treasurer — Reported  and  the  Report  having  been 
read,  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  this  Report  be  recommitted. 

[243.]  The  Committee  Appointed  to  prepare  a  Draught  of 
Instructions  to  the  Gentelmen  who  Represent  the  Town  in  the 
General  Court  Reported  a  Draught,  which  being  read,  it  was 
moved  and  Voted,  that  the  same  be  referred  for  consideration  to 
the  Afternoon. 

Adjourned  to  3  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon  Met  according  to  Adjournment. 
The  Selectmen  presided 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  it  be  a  rule  at  the  present  Meeting,  that 
all  those  Persons  who  give  in  their  Votes  for  a  Representative, 
shall  enter  the  Hall  and  there  remaine  untill  the  Poll  shall  be  closed. 

Voted,  that  the  Vote  passed  in  the  Morning  proposing  that  the 
Poll  be  closed  at  4.  O'Clock  be  reconsidered  and  it  is  proposed  that 
the  Poll  for  the  choice  of  a  Representative  be  closed  at  5.  O:  Clock 
this  Afternoon. 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  iu  their 
Votes  for  one  Representative. 

The  Votes,  being  brought  in  for  one  Representative  the  number 
of  the  same  were  found  to  be  One  hundred  &  fourteen  —  and  upon 
sorting  them  it  Appeared  that 

John  Rowe  Esqr. 

Votes. 

was  chosen  by  a  Majority  of  Votes  ---------59 

[344.]  The  business  relative  to  the  choice  of  a  Representa- 
tive being  over 

Col0.  Daws 
took  the  Chair. 

The  Report  of  Committee  for  draughting  Instructions  to  the 
Gentelmen  chosen  to  Represent  this  Town  in  the  General  Court 
again  taken  up  —  and  the  Draught  of  Instructions  having  been 
considered  paragraph  by  paragraph — was  accepted  by  the  Town, 
and  are  as  follows.      Viz1. 


Boston   Town   Records,   1783.  313 

Gentelmen 

Having  made  choice  of  you  to  Represent  this  Town 
in  the  General  Court  the  year  ensuing,  We  confide  in  your  Integ- 
rity and  good  Understanding  to  conduct  the  Publick  Affairs  in  our 
Behalf,  in  such  Manner  as  to  promote  the  Interest  and  Safety  of 
the  Commonwealth  at  Large  and  of  this  Metropolis  in  particular.  It 
is  nevertheless  our  unalienable  Right  to  communicate  to  you  our 
Sentiments  ;  and  when  we  shall  judge  it  necessary  or  convenient  to 
give  you  our  Instructions  on  any  Special  Matter,  and  We  expect  you 
will  hold  yourselves  at  all  times  bound  to  Attend  to  and  to  [245.] 
Observe  them.  You  will  constantly  bear  it  on  your  Minds,  that 
this  Commonwealth  is  free  Sovereign  and  Independent ;  and  that  it 
retains  every  Power  Jurisdiction  and  Right  which  is  not  by  the 
Confederation  or  may  not  hereafter  by  the  People,  be  expressly 
delegated  to  the  United  States  in  Congress  Assembled  —  You  will 
therefore  conceive  it  to  be  your  bounden  Duty  in  your  legislative 
Capacity,  to  exercise  the  Powers  of  the  Commonwealth  vested  in 
you  with  your  utmost  Wisdom,  to  guard  its  Rights  with  all  possible 
Vigilance,  and  take  Care  that  its  sovereign  Jurisdiction  be  not 
i m pared  or  unreasonably  delagated  to  Other  Persons,  besides  those 
in  whom  the  Constitution  hath  vested  it  on  any  Pretence  whatever. 

Self  preservation  is  said  to  be  the  first  Law  of  Nature,  It  holds 
good  equally  with  Societies  and  Individuals,  you  will  therefore 
carefully  Advert  to  those  Principles  which  are  essential  to  the 
Preservation  of  a  free  Commonwealth.  In  this  you  will  be  greatly 
aided  by  our  excellent  Frame  of  Government  and  the  Declara- 
tion of  Rights,  which  we  recommend  to  your  frequent  Perusal  — 
There  we  find  it  to  be  the  express  Sentiment  of  the  Body  of  this 
People,  that  the  preservation  of  Good  Government,  essentially 
[246.]  depends  upon  Piety  Religion  and  Morality,  and  that  these 
cannot  be  generally  diffused  among  a  Community  but  by  the 
Institution  of  the  Public  Worship  of  God  —  That  Wisdom  and 
Knowledge,  as  well  as  Virtue  are  necessary  for  the  preserva- 
tion of  the  Rights  and  Liberties  of  the  People. — That  it  is  the 
Duty  of  the  Legislators  and  Magistrates  of  the  Commonwealth,  to 
cherrish  the  Interest  of  Literature  and  the  Sciences,  and  all  Sem- 
inaries of  them  especially  the  University  at  Cambridge,  Publick 
Schools  and  Grammar  Schools,  in  the  Towns  —  That  Piety 
Justice,  Moderation,  Temperance,  Industry  and  Frugality,  are 
absolutely  necessary  to  preserve  the  Advantages  of  Liberty  — 
These  are  the  Principles  of  our  Constitution,  which  it  was  incum- 
bent on  us  very  particularly  to  attend  to  in  our  Choice  of  you  to 
represent  us  ;  and  we  require  of  you  the  Strict  Observance  of  them 
in  the  Part  you  shall  take  in  the  formation  of  all  Laws  Necessary 
for  the  good  Administration  of  the  Affairs  of  the  Commonwealth. 
We  shall  always  Submit  chearfully  to  Laws  formed  on  those  Prin- 
ciples, and  wish  for  as  perfect  a  [247.]  System  as  human 
Wisdom  can  contrive  ;  at  the  same  time,  as  faithfull  Citizens,  we 
must  enjoin  it  upon  you,  to  use  your  utmost  Inffluence,  that  the 
Act  of  this  Commonwealth,  intitled  an  Act  for  the  due  Observa- 
tion of  the  Lords  Day,  and  other  penal  Laws  may  be  carefully 
revised,  that  Such  of  them  or  parts  of  them  as  are  repugnant  to 


314  City  Document  No.  80. 

the  Rights  and  Liberties  contained  in  the  Constitution,  may  be 
altered  and  amended  or  repealed. 

Moreover  in  the  aforesaid  Declaration  of  Rights,  the  impartial 
Interpretation  of  the  Laws,  and  Administration  of  Justice  are 
expressly  held  to  be  essential  to  the  Preservation  of  the  Rights 
of  every  Individul,  his  Life,  Liberty,  Property  and  Character ; 
We  therefore  expect  that  you  will  use  your  utmost  Endeavours 
that  all  due  Encouragement  be  given  to  the  Ministers  of  Justice  ; 
and  particularly,  that  an  honorable  Support  be  Afforded,  as  the 
Constitution  requires,  to  the  Judges  of  the  Supreme  Judicial  Court. 
You  will  also  take  Care  that  the  Three  Great  Powers  of  Govern- 
ment the  Legislative,  Executive;  and  Judicial  be  kept  distinct 
Agreeable  to  the  Letter  of  our  Constitution,  and  the  Spirit  of 
every  free  [248.]  Government  —  This  we  more  especially  remind 
you  of,  inasmuch  as  we  believe  there  has  been  an  Interference  in 
tiie  Exercise  of  these  several  Powers  which  leads  to  a  fatal  Change 
of  a  free  Commonwealth  for  Tyranny  or  Anarchy  and  Con- 
fusion. 

You  will  always  remember  that  }'OU  represent  a  Trading  Town  ; 
and  therefore  while  you  justly  give  your  Attention  to  every  Con- 
sideration which  may  lead  to  promote  Agriculture  in  its  utmost 
Extent,  you  will  not  fail  to  exert  yourselves  in  proposing  and 
enforcing  evex'y  Measure  Adapted  to  cherish  and  extend  our 
Trade,  and  to  encourage  the  Fishery,  which  by  the  Blessing  of 
Heaven  is  secured  to  us  by  the  Treaty  of  Peace.  — We  cannot  too 
warmly  express  our  Gratitude  to  Almighty  God,  who  hath  smiled 
on  the  virtuous  Struggles  of  the  United  States,  and  crowned  the 
Conflict  with  so  happy  a  Conclusion,  Our  Independence  is  con- 
firmed—  A  Blessing  for  which  Patriots  have  long  toiled  and 
Heroes  fought  and  Bled  —  Posterity  can  never  justly  charge  us 
with  tamely  surrendering  their  Rights  —  We  and  they  shall  be 
Free  so  long  as  we  shall  [249.]  deserve  Freedom  —  It  will  de- 
pend upon  our  Virtue — But  while  we  contemplate  the  Treaty 
in  general  with  pleasure  we  cannot  help  feeling  anxious  for  the 
Event  of  the  fifth  Article,  which  inspects  those  Men  who  fled  from 
their  Country  when  their  Liberties  were  Invaded,  and  took 
Residence  in  the  Dominions  of  the  Invader,  Congress  only  can 
recommend  —  They  will  not  Obtrude  Citizins  on  any  of  the  States 
—  Much  less  declared  Traitors — We  give  it  to  you  as  our  Opinion, 
that  the  late  Conspirators  against  the  Rights  and  Liberties  of 
America  and  of  Mankind,  whether  they  have  Actually  taken  up 
Arms  against  us  or  not,  who  have  taken  Shelter  in  the  Bosom  of 
our  Enemies,  that  Nation  which  has  exhausted  her  Wealth  and 
Strength  to  enslave  us  ought  never  be  suffered  to  Return,  but  to 
be  excluded  from  having  any  Lot  or  Portion  among  us. 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  confer  with  the  Abuttors  on  the 
Town  Dock  relative  to  the  Title  and  property  of  the  Lands ;  or 
any  Privileges  in  the  said  Dock  as,  also  with  respect  to  any 
Compensation — Reported  verbally  and  had  leave  to  Report 
again 

Moved  and  Voted,  that  the   [250.]   Instructions  Agreed  upon 


Boston   Town   Eecords,    1783.  315 

to  be  given  the  Gentlemen  who  Represent  this  Town  in    the  Gen- 
eral Court  be  published  in  the  severall  News  Papers. 

Moved  that  when  this  Meeting-  shall  be  Adjourned,  it  shall  be 
to  this  Day  three  Weeks.  10.  O  Clock  Fore  noon. 
And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly 
Adjourned. 


Tuesday  June  3d.  1783.  10.  O'Clock  Forenoon,  met  according 
to  Adjournment 

Thomas  Daws  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  being 
detained  at  the  General  Court,  a  Motion  was  made  and  passed 
that  a  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  be  now  chosen  by  a  Hand  Vote. 

Benjamin  Kent  Esq"*, 
was  chosen  Moderator  of  this  Meeting  during  the  Absence  of   the 
Honble.  Samuel  Adams  Esqr.  the  Moderator 

It  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to 
3.  O  Clock  Afternoon  and  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Ad- 
journed. 

3.  O'Clock  P:  M  Met  according  to  Adjournment. 

[351.]  Benjamin  Kent  Esqr.  chosen  a  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0, 
being  Absent  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  another  Moderator 
Pro  Tem°.  be  now  chosen. 

Joseph  Greenleaff  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  by  a  Hand  Vote 

The  Committee  Appointed  by  the  Town  to  examine  the  Books 
and  Accompts  of  Mr.  Peter  Boyer  Town  Treasurer  to  March  the 
1st.  1783  —  have  Attended  that  service  and  beg  leave  to  Report  as 
follows. 

That  they  find  the  Books  and  Accompts  of  said  Treasurer  regu- 
larly kept  and  posted  up  to  the  first  of  March  1783  by  which  it 
Appears  that  he  charges  himself  for  Taxes  received,  Rents,  Sale 
of  New  Emission  Money,  and  State  Treasurers  Certificates  from 
the  first  of  March  1782  to  the  first  of  March  1783.  the  Sum  of 
Eighteen  thousand  seven  hundred  and  six  pounds  nineteen  Shill- 
ings and  four  Pence  half  Penny,  and  also  new  Notes  hand  issued 
in  lieue  of  Old  ones,  which  he  has  redeemed  and  charges  the  Town 
with  to  the  Amount  of  Seven  Thousand  and  thirty  seven  Pounds 
fourteen  Shillings  &  7d.  Specie  the  whole  of  sd.  two  Sums  Amount- 
ing to  £25744.     13.     11£     Specie 

[253.]     And  sd.  Treasurer  discharges  himself  from  the  Above 
Sums  in  the  following  manner 
Paid  on  the  Selectmens  Drafts  to  March  1st.  1783 
Paid  on  the  Overseers  Draft  to  D°      -     -     -     - 
Paid  to  old  &  New  Creditors    £3585     14     6£  ) 

&  1102  0  Ojj 
Paid  Loan  Notes  given  to  Supply  Almshouse  - 
Paid  off  old  Notes  given  for  supply 

of  the  Alms  House 
Paid  Interest  of  Ditto      ------- 


£3944 

18 

If 

915 

9 

6£ 

4687 

14 

6| 

1050 

0 

0 

5766 

13 

8* 

1829 

5 

11* 

316  City  Document  No.  80. 

Paid  Premiums   &  Abatements  made   to  the") 

Late     Collectors,     Messrs.    Shaw,  Sumner,  !        ,-,  „         i 

Thompson  &  Bayley  on  the  Settlement  of  j  ^ 

their  Account  J 

Paid  on  Account  of  New  Notes      -----  449     15       2  J 


£25193 
Ballance    Remaining   in   the    hands   of    Peter 

Boyer  Town  Treasurer  the  1st  of  March  1783  [■         551       8       9£ 
in  hard  Money  carry d  to  New  Account 


Specie  £25744  -  13     11£ 

Your  Committee  have  carefully  &  in  a  Particular  Manner  Ex- 
amined the  Books  &  Accounts  of  said  Treasurer  also  the  Drafts  of 
the  Selectmen  &  Overseers  &  every  Other  publick  charge  &  find 
them  all  Right  Cast  &  proper  &  Sufficient  Vouchers  of  every 
Charge. 

There  also  remains  in  the  hands  of  the  Treasurer  the  1st.  of 
March  1783  besides  the  Above  Ballance  Viz'. 

Dollars 

[253.]  In  New  Emission  Money  57323  N.E.  is!  7196  18  0 
In  old  Continental  Money  old  Curry  -  38202  7  8 
for  which  said  Treasurer  remains  Accountable  to  your  Committee 
Also  think  it  proper  to  inform  the  Town  that  it  Appears  by  the 
Treasurers  Books  that  there  remained  due  from  the  four  last  Col- 
lectors Viz'.  Mr.  Bayley  Mr.  Williams  Mr.  Parker  &  Mr.  Fallass, 
the  first  March  1783  —  including  their  Premiums  the  following 
Sums  Viz*. 

From  Mr.  Bayley £564    12    5f 

from  Mr.  Williams   -----------       924      2    6f 

from  Mr.  Parker 903      0   8| 

from  Mr.  Fallas -----       921    19    7f 


Specie—  £3313  15  4J 
All  which  is  humblv  Submitted  by  Thomas  Melvill,  Thomas 
Walley,  John  Lowell.'    Boston  May  1st.  —1783. 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put.  Viz1.  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted  Passed 
in  the  Affermative. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  for  March  Meeting  relative  to  a 
Grant  for  the  services  of  the  Present  Year,  Schoolmasters  Salaries 
&c  which  was  referred  over  to  this  Meeting  for  consideration  — 
was  read  —  whereupon  it  was  moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Committee 
be  appointed  to  consider  and  Report  what  Sum  of  Money  it  will 
be  necessary  [254.]  for  the  Town  to  raise  in  order  to  defre}T  the 
Expencies  of  the  Current  Year. 

Voted,  that  Edward  Payne  Esqr. 
Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Ezekiel  Price  Esq1". 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  who  are  desired  to  make 
Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting. 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  confer  with  the  Abutters  on  the 
Town  Dock  relative  to  Claims  Compensation  &c  :  —  made  a  Verbal 


Boston  Town   Records,  1783.  317 

Report  —  whereupon  it  was  Moved  —  That  said  Committee  be 
desired  to  proceed  in  the  business  Assigned  them,  and  make 
Report  thereof  to  the  Town  in  writing  at  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting  —  and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in 
the  Affermative 

The  Selectmen 
Appointed  a  Committee  to  Act  upon  the  List  of  Jurors. 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall 
be  to  next  Thursday  Seven  night  3.  O'Clock  P:  M: 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  consideration  of  Schoolmasters  Salarys 
be  referred  to  the  Adjournment. 

Then  the  Meeting  was  Adjourned. 

[255.]  Thursday  Three  O  Clock  Afternoon  Met  According 
to  Adjournment. 

The  Committee  Appointed  by  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of 
Boston  to  examine  the  Claims  of  the  Abuttors  on  the  Town  Dock 
have  Attended  that  service  and  beg  leave  to  Report 

That  the  Claimes  of  said  Abuttors,  as  well  as  the  Claimes  of  The 
Town  in  and  to  the  Dock  are  exceeding  numerous  Ancient  and 
perplexed,  and  that  the  Committee  have  great  reason  to  Suppose 
there  is  a  very  considerable  Number  of  Deeds  and  Papers  touching 
the  Claimes  aforesaid  which  have  not  yet  been  exhibited. 

That  if  the  Committee  could  gain  possession  of  all  the  Papers, 
of  every  kind  relating  to  said  Claims  it  would  even  in  that  Case  re- 
quire such  a  length  of  Time  to  Obtain  a  final  and  determined 
Opinion  touching  the  Nature  and  quantity  of  right  of  different 
Claimants  as  would  have  the  Speedy  purpose  for  which  the  Com- 
mittee was  chosen  unanswered. 

Besides  your  Committee  would  be  cautious  how  they  deside 
upon  the  right  of  any  Person  who  denies  all  Authoriety  to  [256.] 
determin  in  such  case,  but  the  Authority  of  a  Court  Law. 

Upon  the  whole  the  Committee  having  considered  the  long  unin- 
terrupted possession  of  the  Abuttors  and  their  Predecissors,  and 
having  looked  into  a  large  number  of  Deeds  and  Town  Records 
are  of  Opinion,  that  the  Town  has  little  more  than  a  right  in  com- 
mon to  that  part  of  the  Dock  meant  to  be  filled  up,  and  that  it  is 
most  convenient  in  the  choice  of  difficulties  to  make  some  compo- 
sition with  the  Abuttors  and  to  make  them  some  Offer  for  a  release 
of  their  right  be  that  more  or  less. 

James  Sullivan 
Jos.  Waters  Junt. 
Thomas  Dawes  Jur. 

The  aforegoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  the 
Question  was  put  —  Viz4.  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  Accepted  — 
Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 

Moved,  that  a  Committee  be  appointed  to  confer  with  the  Abut- 
tors on  the  Town  Dock,  and  Report  the  Sums  that  Such  Abuttors 
would  take  for  their  claim  to  the  Dock,  and  in  case  the  Abuttors 
do  not  mention  a  Sum,  then  the  Committee  and  Abuttors  shall 
agree  upon  three  Persons  to  value  said  Claims  and  Report  the 
same  at  the  [257.]  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting  —  And  the 
Question  being  accordingly  put — Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 


318  City  Document  No.  80. 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  and  hereby  are  Appointed  a  Com- 
mittee for  the  purposes  Aforesaid 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  and  Report  what  Snm  of 
Money  it  would  be  necessary  for  the  Town  to  raise  in  order  to 
def rev  the  Expencies  of  the  Current  Year  Reported  —  And  the 
Report  having  been  read  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  consid- 
eration of  this  Report,  and  all  other  matters  which  remain  unfin- 
ished to  be  referred  over  to  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting- 
Moved,  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall  be  to  this 
Day  seven  Night — 8.  O'Clock  Afternoon 

Voted,  that  the  Town  Clerk  be  directed  to  Notify  the  Inhabi- 
tants of  the  business  of  the  Adjournment  —  Viz4.  —  To  grant  the 
Sum  of  Money  necessary  to  defrey  the  Expencies  of  the  Current 
Year,  and  also  the  Salares  of  Schoolmasters  Town  Treasurer  &c 

Adjourned  to  Thursday  the  19th.  of  June  Instant.  3.  OClock 
Afternoon. 

[258.]  Thursday  the  19th.  Day  of  June  3.  O. Clock  in  the 
Afternoon  the  Town  met  according  to  Adjournment. 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  what  Sum  of  Money  is 
necessary  to  be  raised  for  defreying  the  Expencies  of  the  Current 
year  —  Reported  as  follows  Viz'. 

That  it  appears  by  the  Treasurers  Books  and  the  Report  of  the 
Committee  appointed  to  examine  the  Treasurers  Accounts,  there 
remained  unpaid  of  the  Selectmen  and  Overseers  Draughts  on  the 

first  of  March  last £2020  0— 

To  discharge  this  Sum  there  was  in  the 

Treasury   in  Money £550  ~\  ..  1  fi  . 

Due    from   the    Collectors  deducts  their)   fil„    (■ 

Premiums  and  Abatemts.  About  8  p  C.  j  ) 

Remains  due  to  Compleat  the  Draughts    of   the  \  nnnn 

last  Year ) 

To    pay  for  New    School  House  —  since  drawn  )     „  .  ~ 

for } 

To    pay   the  Town    Clerk    for  three    years  —  )  1000 

past  --' _j  

2200 
For  the  Expences  of    the    Curr'.   year    School- 
masters Salaries £1200 

Watchmen    £760    Town   Treasurer    and  Town 


Clark  £400 j  116° 

[259.]        Assessors  —  £600  —  Premium    for  )  1  90f. 

Collecting   -     -     -     -     £600-     -     -     -     -     - } I/uu 

6  p  Cl.  Abatement  on  £25000 1500 

Repairing  the  Streets,  Buildings  and  other  Con-  "I     r()(^ 

tingent  Charges  at  least     - -  ) 

For  Posts  Rails  &c  for  the  Market  Square  and  \    g~„ 

filling  up  the  Dock  to  be  paid  out  of  the  Taxes  j-  J 

exclusive  —  of   the  Abuttors  Claims  ) 

£6060 
To  pay  the  Overseers  Draughts  for  the  Alms-  }  2000 

house       ------------       J  

£10260. 


Boston   Town   Kecords,  1783.  319 

la  this  Estimate  no  Provision  is  made  to  pay  any  part  of  the  old 
debts  either  principal  or  interest  except  the  New  Emission  Money 
is  Sold  for  the  purpose  of  paying  the  Interest  on  the  Notes,  that 
have  been  brought  in  and  renewed. 

This  Sum  of  £10260  -  -  -  the  Committee  are  of  Opinion  will  be 
necessary  —  whether  the  Inhabitants  can  pay  a  larger  or  even  so 
Large  a  Sum  in  Addition  to  the  State  Taxes,  is  submitted  to  the 
consideration  of  the  Town —  Edward  Payne 
The  State  Tax  is  upwards  Thomas  Wallev 
of  £17000.                                                  Ezekiel  Price  " 

The  aforegoing  Report  having  been  read  and  Considered,  it  was 

moved  that  the  Sum  of  £10,200 lawful  Money  be  [260.] 

raised  by  a  Tax  on  the  Inhabitants  to  defry  the  Expencies  of  the 
Town  the  Current  Year  —  and  the  Question  being  accordingly  put 
—  Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 

It  was  moved  and  carried  that  the  Above  Vote  for  raising 
£10,200  —  for  the  defreying  the  Charges  of  the  Current  year  be 
reconsidered  —  also 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Nine  thousand  Pounds  lawful  Money  be 
raised  by  a  Tax  upon  the  Polls  and  Rateable  Estates  of  the 
Inhabitants  of  this  Town  in  order  to  defrey  the  necessary  Ex- 
pences  of  the  Current  Year. 

Moved,  that  a  Committee  be  now  Appointed  to  consider  and 
Report  what  they  shall  Judge  to  be  proper  and  adequate  Salaries 
for  the  Schoolmasters  and  Town  Treasurer  the  present  Year  — 
And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Afferma- 
tive  —  also 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Thomas  Walley  excused 

Mr.  John  Lowell 
Mr.  Joseph  Russel 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid  to  Report  at  the  Ad- 
journment. 

Moved  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall  be  to  this 
Day  fortnight  [261.]  3.  O  Clock.  Afternoon,  being  the  3d.  Day  of 
July 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick 
Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Thursday  the  19th. 
Day  of  June  Anno  Domini  1783.  4.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  was  read. 

The  Precept  received  from  the  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives for  the  choosing  one  Person  to  Represent  this  Town  in 
the  General  Court  this  present  year  in  the  Room  of  the  HonbIe. 
John  Pitts  Esqr.  who  has  been  Elected  Senator  and  accepted  the 
Trust  —  was  read  —  and  After  some  debate  had  thereon 

It  was  moved,  that  the  Town  proceed  to  make  choice  of  one 
Person  to  Represent  this  Town  in  the  General  Court  of  this 
Commonwealth  for  the  present  Year  in  room  of  the  Honble.  John 


320  City  Document  No.  80. 

Pitts  Esqr.  who  has  been  Elected  Senator  and  Accepted  [262.] 
the  Trust — And  the  Question  being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in 
the  Negative. 

It  was  then  moved  that  this  Meetiug  be  dissolved. 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  dissolved. 


At  an  Adjournment  of  the  May  Meeting  July  3d.  1783. 
3.  O  Clock  in  the  Afternoon. 

Joseph  Greenleaf  Esqr. 
in  the  Chair 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  —  Viz'.  "To  consider  the  request 
of  a  Number  of  the  Inhabitants  that  no  Person  whatever  be. 
suffered  to  sell  pickeled  Meat  Butter  or  "Wet  Provisions  of  any 
kind  whatever  in  the  Market  &c —  was  read  —  as  also  the  Petition 
to  the  Selectmen,  requesting,  that  said  Article  might  be  inserted  in 
the  Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  whereupon  after  some 
debate  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  the  further  consideration  of 
this  Article  be  deffered. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz1.  "To  consider  of  some 
speedy  method  for  payment  of  the  Expence  incurred  by  Build- 
ing the  New  School-house,"  was  read,  and  After  some  debate,  the 
Town  declined  Acting  upon  said  Article 

[263.]  The  Article  in  the  Warrant,  Viz1. — To  consider  the 
Request  of  the  Constables  that  some  recompence  may  be  made 
them  for  services  rendered  the  Town  in  that  Office  "  —  was  read  & 
considered  ;  whereupon  the  Question  was  put.  Viz'.  —  Whether 
the  said  Request  shall  be  granted —  Passed  in  the  Negative. 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  consider  and  Report  what  they 
should  Judge  Adequate  Grants  to  the  School  Masters  for  the 
present  Year  —  having  Reported  to  the  Town  as  their  Opinon 
that  the  Same  Allowances  be  made  the  Several  Schoolmasters  for 
their  services  the  present  Year  as  were  made  them  the  last  Year 
—  the  following  Votes  were  passed  — Viz1. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  two  hundred  Pounds,  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Hunt  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  South 
Grammar  School  the  present  year  to  commence  the  first  of  March 
last,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  clue. 

Voted,  that  the  Sura  of  two  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Nathan  Davis  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of  the  North 
Grammer  School  the  present  Year,  commencing  from  the  first  of 
March  last  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become 
due. 

[264.]  Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  and  Ninety 
Pounds  be  allowed  and  paid  unto  Mr.  James  Carter  for  his  Salary 
as  Master  of  the  Writing  School  in  Queen  Street  the  present  Year 
commencing  from  the  first  of  March  last,  the  same  to  be  paid  him 
Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  and  Ninety  Pounds,  be 
allowed  and  paid  unto  Mr.  James  Tileston  for  his  Salary  as  Master 
of  the  North  Writing  School  the  present  year,  the  same  to  be  paid 


Boston  Town  Kecoeds,  1783.       321 

him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due  aud  to  commence  from  the 
first  of  March  last. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  and  Ninety  Pounds  be 
allowed  and  paid  unto  Mr.  John  Vinal  for  his  Salary  as  Master  of 
the  Writing  School  in  the  Common  the  present  year,  the  same  to 
be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence 
from  the  first  of  March  last 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  One  hundred  Pounds  be  allowed  and 
paid  unto  Mr.  Samuel  Payson  for  his  Salary  as  Usher  of  the  South 
Grammer  School  for  the  present  Year  the  Same  to  be  paid  him 
Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due,  and  to  commence  from  the  first 
of  March  last 

[265.]  Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Tileston  Master  of  the  North 
Writing  School  be  allowed  for  House  Rent  the  present  year  the 
Sum  of  forty  Pounds,  the  Same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it 
shall  become  due  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of  March  last 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Nathan  Davis  Master  of  the  North  Grammer 
School  be  allowed  for  House  Rent  the  Present  Year  the  Sum  of 
Forty  Pounds,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall 
become  due  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of  March  last 

Voted,  that  Mr.  John  Vinal  Master  of  the  Writing  School  in  the 
Common  be  allowed  for  House  Rent  the  present  Year  the  Sum  of 
forty  Pounds,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  be- 
come due  and  to  commence  from  the  first  of  March  last 

Voted,  that  Mr.  Peter  Boyer  be  allowed  and  paid  the  Sum  of 
Two  hundred  Pounds  for  his  Services  as  Treasurer  the  present 
Year,  the  same  to  be  paid  him  Quarterly  as  it  shall  become  due 
and  to  commence  the  first  of  March  Last 

[266.]  The  Committee  Appointed  to  confer  with  the  Abutters 
on  the  Town  Dock  relative  to  any  Claims  of  Priviledge  &c  in  said 
Dock  being  called  upon  to  Report  —  informed  the  Town  that  they 
were  not  as  yet  able  to  make  Report. 

Moved  that  a  Committee  be  now  appointed  to  take  into  consid- 
eration   what   is    still   due    to    David   Jeffries   Esqr.    late    Town 
Treasurer  for  his  Services  in  that  Office  and  to  Report  at  the  Ad- 
journment if  any  or  at  the  next  Town  Meeting  —  The  Question 
being  accordingly  put  —  Passed  in  the  Affirmative. 
Voted,  that  Mr.  Thomas  Walley 
Mr.  John  Lowel 
Mr.  Henry  Prentice 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  &  things  which  remain  unfinished  at  this 
Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  next  general  Town  Meeting  that 
shall  be  called  then  to  be  acted  upon 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  &  legally  warned  in  [267.]  Pub- 
lick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Fryday  the  4th. 
Day  of  July  Anno  Domini  1783  —  10.  O. Clock  in  the  Forenoon 

Warrant  for  calling  this  Meeting-  was  read 


322  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  Houble.  James  Sullivan  Esq1",  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  &  took  his  Seat  accordingly. 

The  Committee  appointed  by  the  Town  the  Tenth  of  March  last 
to  Apply  to  a  proper  Gentelmanto  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  fourth 
Da}7  of  July  Instant  (in  such  Place  as  the  Town  shall  determine  to 
be  most  convenient  for  the  purpose)  it  being  a  Day  ever 
memorable  in  the  Annals  of  this  Country  for  the  Declaration  of 
our  Independence 

Reported 

That  having  met  several  times  for  the  purposes  mentioned  in 
the  Town  Vote,  they  have  unanimously  made  choice  of  Dr.  John 
Warren  to  deliver  an  Oration  on  the  fourth  of  July  Instant,  who 
had  accordingly'  accepted  of  that  service 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read,  the  same  was  accepted 
by  the  Town 

Upon  a  Motion  the  Town  took  iuto  consideration  when  would  be 
the  best  time  [268.]  to  have  the  Oration  pronounced  ;  as  also 
what  place  would  be  most  suitable  for  the  purpose  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Oration  be  delivered  at  Dr.  Coopers  Church  in 
Brattle  street,  the  Kail  not  being  capacious  enough  to  receive  the 
Inhabitants  that  Attend  upon  the  Occasion  —  also 

Voted*,  that  William  Tudor  Esqr. 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 
Ebenezer  Hancock  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  to  wait  upon  Dr.  John  Warren,  and  acquaint  him 
that  it  is  the  desire  of  the  Town,  that  the  Oration  may  be  delivered 
at  Dr.  Coopers  Church  as  soon  as  the  Religeons  Exercises  as  di- 
rected by  the  Gen1.  Court  are  ended,  as  also  to  Ask  leave  of  the 
Committee  of  said  Church  for  the  use  of  that  Building 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Satur- 
day next,  12.  — O'Clock. at  Noon  then  to  met  in  this  Place 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned 

Saturday  the  5th.  Day  of  July  12.  O'Clock  at  Noon  —  Town 
Met  According  to  Adjournment 

[269.]  An  Oration 

To  commemorate  the  Independence  of  the  United  States  of  Amer- 
ica was  delivered  by  Dr.  John  Warren  at  Dr.  Coopers  Church  on 
the  Yesterday  to  a  large  and  crouded  Assembly,  that  Day  being 
the  Anniversary  of  said  Indepeudance 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  The  Selectmen 
l»e  and  hereb}*  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  wait  on  Doctr.  John 
Warren,  and  in  the  Name  of  the  Town  lo  Thank  him  for  the  learned 
and  elegant  Oration  delivered  by  him  Yesterday  at  the  Request  of 
the  Town  upon  the  Anniversary  of  the  Independence  of  the  United 
States  of  America  in  which  according  to  the  Institution  of  the 
Town  he  considered  the  feelings,  manners,  and  Principles  which 
lead  to  that  great  National  Event  —  And  to  request  of  him  a  Copy 
thereof  for  the  Press. 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that 

The  Gentelmcn  the  Selectmen  be  and  hereby  arc  appointed  a 


Boston   Town   Records,   1783.  323 

Committee  to  Apply  to  some  Learned  and  Able  Gentelman  to 
deliver  an  Oration  on  the  4th.  of  July  1784  that  Day  being  the  An- 
niversary of  the  Independence  of  the  United  [270.]  States  of 
America,  wherein  the  Orator  is  to  consider  the  feelings  manners 
and  principles  which  lead  to  this  great  National  Event,  as  well  as 
the  important  and  happy  Effects  whether  general  or  Domestiee 
which  have  already  and  will  forever  continue  to  flow  from  that 
Auspicious  Epoch. 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  Other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Faneuil  Hall  on  Monday  the  11th.  Day  of 
August  Anno  Domini  1783  —  3.  O'Clock  P.M. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  • —  was  read. 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  a  Moderator  for  this  Meeting  be  chosen 
by  a  Hand  Vote. 

The  Honble.   Robert  Treat  Paine  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator, 
but  being  by  his  desire  excused  from  serving 
Thomas  Dawes  Esqr.   ■ 
was  chosen  Moderator,  and  took  the  Chair  accordingly. 

[371.]  The  Petition  of  a  Number  of  Physicians  for  leave  to 
Erect  an  Inoculating  Hospital  at  Apple  Island  &c — Viz1. 

To  The  Freeholders  &  Other  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston 
in  publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled. 

When  the  People  of  this  Commonwealth  were  a  part  of  the 
British  Nation,  and  consequently  were  connected  in  Commerce 
only  with  that  Kingdom,  their  Islands  and  Countries,  it  happened 
by  this  intercourse,  that  nearly  once  in  ten  years  that  distinctive 
Disorder  the  Small  Pox  made  its  Appearance  in  this  Metropolis, 
sweeping  from  the  Stage  in  its  progress,  the  enterprising  Mer- 
chant the  busy  Mechanic,  and  the  valuable  Patriot,  before  leave 
could  be  obtained  to  mitigate  its  Severity  by  the  Hand  of  the 
Inoculation.  —  The  Inhabitants  flew  from  the  face  of  the  destroyer 
and  with  them  a  very  important  Part  of  the  Trade  of  this  Metrop- 
olis, which  has  scarcely  at  this  day  returned,  since  we  have  now 
Opened  an  Intercourse  with  the  Nations  of  Europe  and  all  the 
Islands  in  the  West  Indies,  may  we  not  justly  expect  this  disorder 
will  be  much  oftner  brought  among  us  which  will  occasion  an 
Obstruction  in  Trade  very  injurious  to  a  large  Commercial  City; 
to  prevent  these  Evils  in  future,  which  we  conceive  may  be  effected 
by  an  Appropriation  of  some  convenient  place  for  Inoculation, 
where  every  Person  who  wishes  to  pass  through  [272.]  the  Dis- 
order may  without  any  danger  to  that  part  of  the  Community  who 
from  Infirmity  or  disinclination  would  Chuse  to  Avoid  it. 

The  Subscribers  beg  leave  to  Petition  for  Liberty  to  carry  on 
the  Business  of  Innoculation  upon  Apple  Island  it  being  a  very  Safe 
and  convenient  Situation  ;  or  some  Other  place  within  the  Juris- 
diction of  the  Town  in  the  neighbourhood  of  said  Island,  and  to 
be  under  such  regulations  as  the  Law  directs,  as  they  doubt  not 


324  City  Document  No.  80. 

the  Town  will  be  convinced  of  the  Utility  of  the  Institution  they 
therefor  with  pleasure  submit  to  their  wise  consideration. 
And  your  Petitioners  as  in  duty  bound  will  ever  pray 

John  Warren 
Thomas  Welsh 
Aaron  Dexter 
John  Bartlett 

The  foregoing  Petition  having  been  read,  and  considered,  it  was 
Moved,  and  the  Question  Accordingly  put  —  Viz'.  — Whether  the 
Town  consent  and  Approve  of  the  bnsines  of  Inoculation  being 
carried  on  upon  Apple  Island —  Passed  in  the  Affermative 

The  Petition  of  the  Town  of  Chelsea  relative  to  their  being 
reannexed  to  the  Town  of  Boston,  was  laid  before  the  Town  and 
is  as  follows  Viz*. 

[273.]  To  the  Inhabitants  of  the  Town  of  Boston  the  Ad- 
dress and  Petition  of  the  Town  of  Chelsea  Humbly  Sheweth. 

That  having  for  the  Space  of  Forty  five  years  experienced  many 
disadvantages  from  a  Small  Incorporation,  which  at  first  was  un- 
fairly Obtained  ;  and  being  now  greatly  reduced  and  impoverished 
by  a  very  unequal  proportion  of  Public  Taxes  which  was  Assigned 
us  through  the  Ignorance  of  our  Representative  in  the  year  1781  — 
And  although  the  Hon.  General  Court,  has  for  the  present  Adjusted 
our  valuation  nearly  to  an  equality  with  the  Other  Towns  in  the 
Country  —  Yet  we  find  ourselves  in  Absolute  need  of  protection 
and  security  from  Such  evils  for  the  future  Superior  to  what  we 
are  capable  of  exerting  for  ourselves  —  And  therefore  we  take  the 
Liberty  respectfully  to  Address  you  on  the  Subject  of  a  reunion, 
that  we  may  once  more  be  considered  as  a  branch  of  this 
Metropolis. 

We  have  long  regretted  a  Seperation  which  has  proved  the 
source  of  such  ruinous  consequences  to  us  ;  And  if  no  consider- 
ation of  detriment  or  Additional  Charge  should  Appear  in  your 
discernment  to  Accrue,  we  can't  but  hope  from  the  generous  and 
public  Spirit  which  has  Always  distinguished  the  Inhabitants  of 
this  Metropolis,  that  this  [274.]  Address  will  be  thought  worthy 
of  your  Attention  at  least  so  far  as  to  favour  us  with  a  conferance 
upon  the  Subject  by  a  Committee. 

And  your  Petitioners  as  in  duty  bound  will  ever  pray  &c. 
Philip  Payson 
Samuel  Sargent 
John  Sale 


Committee  in 
the  Name  and 


Joshua  Cheever  behalf  of  the 

Samuel  Clark      J         Town. 


The  foregoing  Petition  having  been  read,  and  debate  had 
thereon,  it  was  moved  and 

Voted,  that  the  Petition  of  the  Town  of  Chelsea  be  referred  to  a 
Committee  to  Consider  the  Same,  and  that  the  said  Committee  be 
directed  to  Confer  with  the  Committee  of  the  Town  of  Chelsea  on 


Boston   Town   Kecords,   1783.  325 

the  Subject  matter  thereof,  and  to  Report  as  Soon  as  may  be  — 
also 

Voted,  unanimously  that 

The  Gentelmen  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose 
aforesaid. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz*.  To  consider  what  allowances 
shall  be  made  the  Assessors  for  their  Services  the  present  Year." 
was  read  —  whereupon  it  was  moved  and 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  directed  to  make  such  Allowance 
to  the  Assessors  [275.]  for  their  service  as  they  may  Judge 
proper ;  provided  such  allowance  does  not  exceed  the  Sum  of  six 
Shillings  p  Day  for  said  Services 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  &  things  which  remain  unfinished  at 
this  Meeting  be  referred  over  to  the  next  General  Town  Meeting 
that  may  be  called  then  to  be  Acted  upon. 

Voted,  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be  given  to  Thomas  Daws 
Esq1",  the  Moderator  for  his  good  Services 

Then  the  Meeting;  was  dissolved. 


At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  and  other  Inhabitants  of  the 
Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in  publick  Town 
Meeting  Assembled  at  Fanuiel  Hall  on  Fryday  the  29th.  Day  of 
August  Anno  Domini  1783  —  3.  O. Clock  in  the  Afternoon 
Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

The  Inhabitants  were  directed  to  withdraw  and  bring  in  their 
Votes  for  a  Moderator  of  this  Meeting,  and  the  same  being 
brought  in  and  sorted,  it  Appeared  that 

Thomas  Daws  Esq1'. 
was  chosen  Moderator,  unanimously 

On  a  Motion  the  Petition  of  a  number  of  a  Number  of  Gentle- 
men, to  the  Selectmen  for  calling  a  Meeting     -  read 

[275  A.]     The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  To   consider 
whether  any  thing  shall  be  done  respecting  the  Land  at  Olivers 
Dock  laid  Waste  by  the  late  Fire"  —  was  read,  whereupon  it  was 
moved  and  Voted  —  That  a   Committee   be  Appointed   to  confer 
with  the  Owners  of  Land  near  Olivers  Dock  made  vacant  by  the 
late  Fire,  and  Report  to  the  Town  at  the  Adjournment,  the  Terms 
on  which  the  Owners  will  dispose  of  their  said  Lands  also 
Voted,  that  Thomas  Daws  Esqr.  Moderator 
Joseph  Barrel  Esq. 
Nathaniel  Appleton  Esqr. 
Nathaniel  Balch 
Nathan  Frazier  Esqr. 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  "  To  consider  what  measures 
shall  be  taken  to  enforce  the  good  and  wholesome  Laws  respect- 
ing building  with  Wood  "  —  was  read  whereupon 

Voted,  that  Honble.  Robert  T.  Payne  Esqr. 
John  Lowel  Esqr. 
William  Tudor  Esq1', 
be  a  Committee  to  examine    the    Laws  relative   to  new  Wooden 


326  City  Document  No.  SO. 

Buildings  erected,  and  to  Report  a  Draught  of  a  Law,  which  may 
be  efectual  to  prevent  the  evil  complained  of 

[276. J  The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4.  lt  To  consider  what 
measures  shall  be  taken  to  enforce  the  good  and  wholesome  Laws 
for  preventing  the  firing  Small  Arms  at  the  bottom  of  the  Common 
on  the  Neck  and  else  where  within  the  Limits  of  the  Town,"  was 
read  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Gentelmen 
The  Selectmen 
be  directed,  immediately  to  employ  three  Persons  to  see  the  Laws 
carried  into   execution  for  prevention  of   the  dangerous  practice 
complained  of 

The  Committee  appointed  to  confer  with  the  Abuttors  on  the 
Town  Dock,  relative  to  a  compensation  for  their  Claims,  Reported 
Verbally  —  That  they  had  not  as  yet  conferred  with  all  the  Abut- 
tors so  as  they  can  now  make  a  full  Report  to  the  Town,  but  hoped 
they  should  be  able  to  do  it  at  the  Adjournment  whereupon 

Moved  &  Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  make  as  full 
a  Report  as  may  be  relative  to  this  matter  at  the  Adjournment  of 
this  Meeting 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant.  Viz*.  "To  consider  what  further 
measures  shall  be  taken  for  the  security  of  the  Town  by  Night  — 
was  read  —  whereupon 

[276  A.]     Voted,  that  Mr.  Sam:  Whitwell 
John  Sweetser  Esq1'. 
Mr.  Nath1.  Balch 
Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 
Mr.  Henry  Prentice 
be  a  Committee  to  consider  this  Article  of  the  Warrant  and  Re- 
port at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  into  certain  demands  the 
Board  of  War  have  against  the  Town  for  Corn,  Arms  &c  Amount- 
ing to  Twenty  Six  hundred  and  forty  Pounds,  laid  their  Report 
before  the  Town  —  which  Report  is  to  be  taken  up  and  consid- 
ered at  the  Adjournment  of  this  Meeting 

Moved,  that  this  Meeting  be  Adjourned  to  Wednesday  next 
being  the  third  Day  of  September,  3.  O'Clock  in  the  Afternoon. 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned. 

Wednesday  the  third  Day  of  September,  3.  O'Clock  Afternoon 
—  Met  according  to  Adjournment. 

[27*7.]  The  Committee  to  confer  with  the  Abuttors  on  the 
Town  Dock  Reported  verbally 

That  they  had  not  been  able  to  confer  with  all  the  Abuttors, 
Col°.  John  Tyng  who  is  one  of  them  being  in  the  Country  Sick  ; 
but,  that  the  amount  of  the  Sums  required  for  compensation  so  far 
as  they  had  gone,  exclusive  of  Mr.  Tyngs  part,  amounting  to 
upwards  of  fifteen  hundred  Pounds,  Appeared  to  them  a  Sum  so 
large,  that  they  were  led  to  the  Opinion,  that  it  was  not  worth 
while  for  the  Committee  to  proceed  any  further  in  the  business  of 


Boston    Town   Kecords,   1783.  327 

Conference,  without  the  Town  should  require  it  of  them  —  After 
some  debate,  it  was  moved 

That  the  Selectmen  be  impowered  to  confer  with  all  or  the 
Major  part  of  the  Abutters  on  the  Town  Dock,  or  such  as  Shall 
legally  represent  them,  and  make  them  the  proposal  of  submitting 
to  the  Arbitration  and  Award  of  three  Persons  to  be  mutually 
chosen  and  Agreed  on  by  the  Town  and  the  said  Abutters,  who 
shall  have  full  Power  finally  to  determine  the  Right,  Title, 
Privilege  and  Claim  of  the  said  Abutters  to  the  Town  Dock  as 
filled  up,  and  to  determine  and  agree  upon  such  Sum  or  Sums  of 
Money  as  they  shall  think  an  Adequate  Compensation  to  the  said 
Abutters  for  the  filling  up  said  Dock,  if  they  have  any  Title  or 
Privilege  thereto ;  and  that  the  Selectmen  be  fully  impowered  to 
nominate  and  Agree  upon  said  Arbitrators  in  behalf  of  the  Town 
[278.]  and  to  enter  into  any  Bonds  and  Covenants  for  the  faith- 
ful performance  of  the  Award  of  said  Arbitrators  —  and  the 
Question  being  accordingly  put  —  It  passed  in  the  Affirmative 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  confer  with  the  Owners  of  Land 
near  Olivers  Dock  made  vacant  by  the  late  Fire  —  Reported 
verbally 

That  they  had  met  several  times  on  the  business,  and  conferred 
with  the  Owners  of  the  Land  where  the  Buildings  were  consumed, 
as  also  the  Abutters  on  Land  on  the  some  square  —  that  M1'. 
Phillips  and  some  others,  were  willing  to  dispose  of  their  Lands 
and  Buildings  provided  the  Other  Owners  and  Abutters  were  dis- 
posed to  part  with  what  might  be  sufficient  to  Answer  the  inten- 
tion of  the  Town,  the  purchase  of  all  which  would  amount  to 
about  five  or  Six  Thousand  Pounds  —  whereupon,  it  was  moved 
and 

Voted,  that  the  Committee,  be  desired  to  proceed  in  the  business 
and  Report  at  the  next  Town  Meeting  in  Writing  and  that  the 
Selectmen  insert  in  the  Warrant  for  calling  said  Meeting  a  Clause 
for  taking  up  said  Report. 

[279„]  The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  further 
measures  shall  be  taken  for  the  security  of  the  Town  by  Night 
Reported  verbally  —  That  there  be  an  Additional  Watch  of  eight 
Men,  which  they  term  a  patroling  Watch,  to  be  partly  made  up 
from  the  other  Watch,  and  to  have  an  Additional  pay  —  Also  with 
respect  to  the  Lamps  being  again  lighted  up  in  the  Town,  if  the 
Town  should  think  it  expedient  —  It  was  then  moved,  and 

Voted,  that  the  Committee  aforesaid  be  desired  to  Report  their 
Opinion  in  Writing  at  the  next  Town  Meeting  which  may  be 
called,  and  that  a  Clause  for  taking  up  the  Report  be  inserted  in 
the  Warrant  for  said  Meeting. 

The  Committee  relative  to  ascertaining  the  demands  of  the 
Board  of  War  on  the  Town  —  Report  as  follows.     Viz'. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  into  certain  demands  the 
Board  of  War  have  against  the  Town  for  Corn  Arms  &c  Amount- 
ing to  £2640.  0.  0  Specie,  have  Attended  that  business  and 
Report 

That  the  seven  hundred  bushels  of  Corn  charged  £158.  19.  1 
has  been  paid  by  William  Phillips  Esqr. 


328  City  Document  No.  80. 

The  one  nundred  forty  eight  Armes  and  Accoutrements 
charged  delivered  Col0.  Proctor,  he  informed  the  Committee  he 
would  do  his  best  [379A]  endeavour  to  collect  and  return  agree- 
able to  the  Condition  of  the  Resolve  of  Court 

The  Ninety  Cartouch  Boxes  and  Ninety  Bayonet  Belts  charged 
delivered  Col°.  Crafts  he  informed  the  Committee  he  did  not  recol- 
lect receiving,  but  if  he  had  them  they  were  for  the  use  of  the 
Militia,  and  were  not  returned  to  him 

The  thirty  one  Fire  Arms  and  Bayonets  charged  delivered  Col0: 
Hatch,  the  Committee  are  informed  were  for  men  inlisted  for  the 
Town  into  the  Continental  Army,  which  Men  were  detained  in 
Town  sometime  for  want  of  Arms,  at  great  expenee  and  hazard  of 
desertion,  that  he  took  this  method  of  procuring  Arms  for  them, 
as  the  only  expedient  to  get  them  to  the  Army,  and  to  save  the 
Town  great  charge 

The  Town  will  be  informed  by  the  Gentelmen  Selectmen  con- 
cerning the  twenty  hundred  weight  of  Lead  charged  delivered  John 
Scollay  Esqr.  as  also  concerning  the  Arms  delivered  to  General 
Gages  order  before  the  Seige,  that  were  Afterwards  taken  & 
repaired  by  the  State, 

All  the  Other  Articles  charged  against  the  Town,  it  appears  by 
a  sketch  of  the  Account  taken  from  the  Books  of  the  late  Board  of 
[279B]  War  (which  is  hereto  annexed)  were  for  the  use  of  the 
States  Hospital 

Isaac  Phillips  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  it  was  moved,  and 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  make  enquiry  respecting 
the  Articles  mentioned  in  the  foregoing  Report  as  being  wanting 
as  also  to  call  upon  the  Colonel  and  the  Captains  of  the  Militia  of 
the  Boston  Regiment  to  Account  for  the  small  Arms  delivered  to 
them,  in  order  for  a  Settlement  of  the  Account  with  the  Com- 
monwealth 

Moved,  and  Voted,  that  all  matters  and  Things  which  remain 
unfinished  at  this  Meeting,  be  and  hereby  are  referred  over  to  the 
next  General  Town  Meeting  that  may  be  called  then  to  be  acted 
upon 

Moved,  and  Voted,  that  the  thanks  of  the  Town  be  and 
hereby  are  given  to  Thomas  Daws  Esq1',  for  his  good  Services  as 
Moderator  of  this  Meeting 

Moved  that  this  Meeting  be  now  dissolved 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly 
dissolved 


[280.]  At  a  Meeting  of  the  Freeholders  &  Other  Inhab- 
itants of  The  Town  of  Boston  duly  qualified  and  legally  warned  in 
publick  Town  Meeting  Assembled  at  Fanuiel  Hall  on  Monday  the 
8th.  Day  of  December  Anno  Domini  1783 —  3.  O  Clock  in  the 
Afternoon. 

Warrant  for  calling  the  Meeting  —  read 

Tt  was  moved  and  Voted  that  the  Moderator  be  chosen  by  a 
Hand  Vote 


Boston   Town   Records,  1783.  329 

The  Honble.  James  Sullivan  Esqr.  was  chosen  Moderator  of  this 
Meeting  and  took  his  Seat  accordingly. 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  — To  choose  two  or  more  suit- 
able Persons  to  be  Viewers,  and  Cullers  of  Staves  aud  Hoops," 
was  taken  into  consideration  whereupon. 

It  was  moved  and  Voted,  that  Six  Persons  be  chosen  Surveyers 
and  Cullers  of  Staves  and  Hoops  —  also. 

Voted,  that  these  Persons  be  not  chosen  by  a  Hand  Vote,  but  by 
Ballot 

[281.]  The  Votes  being  accordingly  brought  in  and  sorted  it 
appeared,  that 

Cap*.  John  Newell 
Cap4.  Manassah  Masters 
Mr.  William  Marsters 
Mr.  Daniel  Bell 
Mr.  Arthur  Langford 
Mr.  John  McElroy 
were  chosen  Cullers  of  Staves  &c  for  the  remainder  of  the  year 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz'.  —  "To  consider  whether  the 
Hay  Market  shall  be  removed  to  a  Place  more  convenient  for  the 
Business  "  —  whereupon 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  carry  the  Report  of 
the  Committee  relative  to  Land  on  Olivers  Dock  made  vacant 
by  the  late  Fire,  into  execution,  so  far  as  relates  to  removing  the 
Engine  for  weighing  Hay,  near  the  School  House  by  the  Common. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  confer  with  the  Owners  of  the 
Land  near  Olivers  Dock  made  Vacant  by  the  late  Fire,  having 
attended  the  Business,  take  leave  to  Report 

That  as  some  of  the  Owners  of  said  Land  are  unwilling  to  dis- 
pose of  the  same,  and  the  great  Expence  that  will  attend  the  pur- 
chasing from  Others  so  much  as  will  be  necessary  to  Answer  the 
intention  of  the  Town  [282.]  it  is  not  expedient  for  the  Town 
to  take  any  further  steps  relative  to  the  said  Place  more  especially 
as  the  Committee  conceive  the  Town  may  be  much  better  ac- 
commodated near  the  School  House  by  the  Common  on  their  own 
Land,  and  by  removing  the  Engine  for  weighing  the  Hay  to  that 
Place  it  will  naturally  become  the  Market  Place  for  that  Article, 
and  by  being  more  in  the  Center  of  the  Town  will  better  Accom- 
modate the  Inhabitants,  all  which  is  Submitted 

Thomas  Daws  p  Order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  the 
Question  was  put  —  Viz'.  —  Whether  the  same  shall  be  accepted 
—  Passed  in  the  Affirmative 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  what  further  Measures 
shall  be  taken  for  the  security  of  the  Town  by  Night  having 
attended  the  Business,  take  leave  to  Report  —  Whereas  it  appears 

That  there  are  four  AVatch  Houses  kept  up  in  the  Town,  to 
each  of  which  are  Appointed  one  Constable  at  eleven  Dollars  per 
Month,  and  five  Watchmen  at  eight  Dollars  p  Month,  each  amount- 
ing in  the  whole  to  Seven   hundred  thirty  four   Pounds  [283.] 


330  City  Document  No.  80. 

eight  Shillings  p  Annum  exclusive  of  Fewell  and  Candles,  and  the 
Advantage  arising  f rom  the  said  Watches  appear  to  be  no  ways 
equal  to  the  Expence. 

It  is  therefore  presumed  that  a  different  disposition  of  the 
"Watch,  will  tend  much  more  for  the  Safety  and  Security  of  the 
Town  by  Night  than  the  present. 

If  each  of  the  present  Watch  Houses  were  reduced  to  fotir, 
and  the  eight  taken  from  them  to  form  another  Watch,  to  be  kept 
near  the  State  House  and  this  Watch  to  have  an  addition  of  one 
Shilling  p  Night  to  what  the  Others  have  to  induce  Persons  suita- 
ble for  the  business  to  engage  and  they  to  be  a  patrolling  Watch 
to  inspect  the  Others  &c. 

As  the  Gentelmen  the  Selectmen  will  direct  it  is  supposed  the 
Town  may  reap  such  advantages  from  this  Alteration,  as  will 
compinsate  for  the  additional  Expence. 

And  the  Committee  also  Report,  that  the  lighting;  the  Town  as 
formerly  will  further  Add  to  its  security  — •  upon  enquiring  they 
find  one  hundred  and  twenty  Lamps  left  in  the  upper  Chamber 
[284.]  of  the  Hall,  and  from  the  best  intellegence  suppose  that 
about  eighty  are  out  in  the  Town,  on  this  presumption  One 
hundred  more  Lamps  will  make  up  the  Number  that  was  originally 
kept  up  for  lighting  the  Town 

The  greatest  part  of  the  Posts  and  Irons  are  in  their  Places  — 
The  former  Expencies  of  the  Lamp  Lighters  &  Master  amounted 
to  £155.  4.  0.  and  the  Oyl  and  Wick  about  £300.  0.  0  more  p 
Annum  —  All  which  is  Submitted. 

Thomas  Daws  p  order 

The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  and  considered  —  where- 
upou 

It  was  moved  and  "Voted,  that  so  much  of  said  Report  as 
respects  a  Patrolling  Watch  be  accepted — and  that  the  Select- 
men be  and  hereby  are  appointed  a  Committee  to  carry  the  same 
into  execution  as  soon  as  may  be. 

A  further  debate  arose  respecting  that  part  of  the  Report  which 
respects,  the  Lamps  and  lighting  the  town,  whereupon  it  was 
moved  that  a  Committee  be  now  Appointed  to  Collect  all  the 
Lamps  [285.]  which  are  in  Town  and  others  belonging  to  the 
Town,  and  that  they  devise  ways  and  means  for  the  immediate 
lighting  the  Town  and  make  Report  at  the  Adjournment  of  this 
Meeting  —  also 

Voted,  that  Thomas  Daws  Esqr. 
John  Sweetser 
William  Whitwell 
Mr.  Nath1.  Balch 
Nath1.  Appleton  Esqr. 
Joseph  Barrel  Esqr. 
Mr.  Henry  Prentice 
be  a  Committee  for  the  purpose  aforesaid 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant — Viz'. 

To  receive  the  Report  of  the  Committee  relative  to  market 
Square"  —  was  read  —  but  one  of  said  Committee  being  in  the 
Meeting  acquainted  the  Town  that  they  were  not  yet  ready  to 
make  Report — whereupon  it  was  moved  and 


Boston    Town   Records,   1783.  331 

Voted,  that  the  Gentelmen  who  Represent  the  Town  in  the 
General  Court  of  this  Commonwealth  be  and  hereby  are  Instructed 
to  use  their  endeavors  in  the  General  Court  that  a  [286.]  Law 
may  be  obtained  to  prevent  or  remove  Incumbrances  on  the 
Market  Square,  Simular  to  the  Draught  of  a  By  Law  lately  pre- 
sented the  Court  of  Sessions  for  that  purpose  which  was  not  ob- 
tained as  they  apprehend,  that  only  the  General  Court  could  pass 
such  a  Law 

The  Article  in  the  Warrant  Viz4. 

'.'  That  the  Town  will  come  into  some  Measures  for  the  regulat- 
ing the  tolling  of  the  Bells  for  Funerals  "  —  was  read  it  was  then 
moved,  and 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  a  Committee  to  take  this  Article 
into  consideration  ;  as  also  what  may  be  necessary  for  regulating 
the  Expencies  of  Burials  ;  and  to  make  Report  at  the  Adjourn- 
ment of  this  Meeting. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  examine  and  Report  what  they 
Judge  may  be  still  due  to  the  late  Treasurer  David  Jeffries  Esqr. 
for  his  servicies  as  Treasurer  of  the  Town  Report  as  follows  — 
Viz'. 

The  Committee  appointed  by  a  Vote  of  the  Town  of  July  3d. 
1783 —  to  take  into  consideration  what  is  still  due  to  David  Jeff- 
ries Esqr.  late  Town  Treasurer  for  his  Services  in  that  Office  & 
report  to  the  Town  have  attended  that  service  and  beg  leave  to 
make  the  following  Report. 

[287.]  That  they  have  carefully  examined  the  Selectmens 
drafts  from  the  year  1774  to  the  present  day  in  order  to  Ascertain 
what  he  has  received  from  the  Town  in  those  Years  &  they  find 
that  he  has  not  had  any  drafts  for  his  Salary  for  the  years  1775. 
1778  &  1781.  They  have  also  carefully  examined  the  Sums  he 
has  received  in  paper  Monev  in  the  other  years  in  order  to  dis- 
cover how  near  it  came  in  Value  to  the  Salary  in  solid  Money 
which  we  suppose  he  was  entitled  to.  We  herewith  annex  a  State 
of  his  Account  to  March  1782.  the  time  he  resigned,  wherein  will 
be  seen  the  Allowances  we  have  made  him  for  those  Years  — And 
as  we  find  the  Business  of  the  Treasurer  was  greatly  increased  in 
the  Years  1779.  1780.  &  1781.  owing  to  the  depreciated  paper 
currency  &  the  price  of  all  the  necessarys  of  Life  so  excessive  high 
in  1780  &  1781  — Your  Committee  are  of  Opinion  he  is  Justly  en- 
titled to  the  severall  allowances  we  have  made  him,  Whereby  it 
will  appear  that  there  is  a  ballance  due  to  him  from  the  Town  of 
Eight  hundred  &  Eleven  pounds  fifteen  shillings  &  4d.  Specie, 
which  your  Committee  are  of  Opinion  ought  to  be  on  Interest  till 
it  is  discharged —  all  which  is  submitted  —  Thomas  Walley 
£811.   15.  4.  p  Order  of  the  Committee 

Boston  Decr.  6.  1783 

[288.]  The  foregoing  Report  having  been  read  —  it  was 
moved  and  Voted  that  the  consideration  thereof  be  Referred  to 
next  March  Meeting. 

It  was  Moved  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned  it  shall  be 
to  Thursday  the  18th.  Day  of  December  Ins'.  3.  O  Clock  in  the 
Afternoon. 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned. 


332  City  Document  No.   80. 

Thursday  the  18th.  Day  of  December  met  according  to  Adjourn- 
ment. 

The  Honble.  James  Sullivan  Esqr.  the  Moderator  of  this  Meet- 
ing having  excused  himself  from  attending  this  Afternoon  —  It 
■was  moved  that  the  Town  now  come  to  the  choice  of  a  Moderator 
Pro  Tern0. 

Voted,  that  a  Moderator  Pro  Tern0:  be  chosen  by  a  Hand 
Vote 

Perez  Morton  Esqr. 
was  chosen  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  and  took  the  Seat  accordingly. 

The  Committee  appointed  to  Collect  the  Lamps  belonging  to 
the  Town,  and  also  to  devise  ways  and  means  for  the  speedy 
[289.]  lighting  the  same,  not  having  Reported  in  writing,  it 
was  moved  and  carried  that  the  Consideration  of  this  Matter  be 
passed  over  for  the  present 

The  Committee  appointed  to  carry  the  Resolution  of  the  Town 
into  execution  with  respect  to  appointing  a  patrolling  Watch, 
being  called  upon  to  know  whether  the  Same  had  been  effected, 
acquainted  the  Town,  that  not  having  been  able  to  Obtain  a 
suitable  place  for  a  Watch  House,  they  should  postpone  the  ap- 
pointing said  Watch,  but  hoped  soon  to  be  able  to  answer  the  in- 
tention of  the  Town  relative  to  said  Watch 

The  Committee  appointed  to  consider  of  some  measures  for 
regulating  the  Expencies  at  Funerals,  and  Tolling  the  Bells  on 
such  occasion  —  Reported  to  the  Town  in  writing  on  those  Mat- 
ters—  but  as  what  related  to  the  regulation  of  Funerals  was  Ob- 
jected to,  as  not  being  inserted  in  the  Warrant  for  calling  the 
Meeting ;  the  Town  attended  chiefly  to  that  part  of  the  Report, 
relative  to  the  tolling  of  Bells  at  Funerals,  and  after  considerable 
debate  and  arguments  thereon  the  Town  came  into  the  following 
Resolution  Viz'. 

Voted,  that  in  future  there  be  only  one  Bell  tolled  at  each 
Funeral ;  and  that  the  Bell  of  the  Parish  to  which  the  Deceased 
belonged  ['290.]  Or  the  Bell  of  the  Parish  nearest  to  the  Habi- 
tation where  the  Deceased  Dwelled  at  the  Election  of  the  Relations 
of  the  Deceased. 

That  in  tolling  the  Bells  for  such  Funerals,  not  more  than  two 
Strokes  of  a  Bell  be  given  iu  one  Minute. 

The  Committee  for  collecting  the  Lamps  belonging  to  the  Town, 
and  for  divising  ways  and  means  for  the  immediate  lighting  the 
Town,  not  being  ready  to  make  Report. 

It  was  Moved  and  Voted  that 

Col0.  Tudor 
be  added  to  the  Committee  ;  who  are  desired  to  set  forthwith,  and 
Report  to  the  Town  at  the  Adjournment  the  ways  and  means  for 
carrying  said  intention  of  the  Town  into  immediate  execution. 

It  was  moved  that  when  this  Meeting  is  Adjourned,  it  shall  be 
to  Wednesday  tin;  Twent}7  fourth  Day  of  December  Instant  3. 
O'f'lock  in  the  Afternoon. 

And  the  Meeting  was  accordingly  Adjourned  to  said  Time  then 
to  Meet  in  this  Place. 


Boston   Town   Records,  1783.  333 

Wednesday  the  24  Day  of  December  3.  O  Clock:  Afternoon  — 
Met  according  to  Adjournment 

[291.]  The  Honble.  James  Sullivan  the  Moderator  and  Perez 
Moreton  Esq1'.  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0,  not  being  able  to  give  their 
Attendance,  it  was  moved  and  Voted,  to  come  to  the  choice  of 
another  Moderator  Pro  Tern0,  in  order  to  regulate  the  Meeting 
and  that  this  choice  be  by  a  hand  Vote. 

Ezekiel  Price  Esqr. 
was  accordingly  choseu  Moderator  Pro.  Tern0. 

The  Committee  Appointed  to  Collect  the  Lamps  &c  take  leave 
to  Report. 

That  it  was  the  Intention  of  the  Town  to  have  Lamps  lighted 
as  heretofore  if  a  sufficient  number  could  be  Obtained  for  the  pur- 
pose. And  that  a  Committee  would  attend  at  Fanuiel  Hall  on 
Tuesday  the  23d.  Instant  from  eleven  to  one  of  the  Clock  before- 
noon  at  which  time  &  place  the  Inhabitants  who  had  any  Lamps  in 
their  Possession  were  desired  to  send  in  their  Names  &  Place  of 
Abode  to  the  said  Committee  in  order  that  the  number  of  Lamps 
belonging  to  the  Town  or  otherwa37S  might  be  known  and  also  if 
any  Person  had  any  to  dispose  of  they  were  requested  to  Give 
in  their  Names  with  the  Number  they  have  on  Hand  that  a  satis- 
factory report  might  be  made  at  the  Adjournment  "  The  Commit- 
tee Attended  the  [292.]  Business  &  would  Inform  the  Town 
that  no  Person  Attended  in  consequence  of  the  aforesaid  Notifica- 
tion. 

They  also  desired  a  Gentelman  at  Salem  to  make  Enquiry  of  the 
Lamps  that  are  reported  to  be  in  that  Town  from  whom  they  have 
not  heard. 

The  Committee  would  further  report  that  the  Selectmen  be  re- 
quested to  employ  some  Suitable  Person  as  soon  as  may  be,  to  take 
an  Account  of  the  Irons  &  Posts  that  was  provided  in  the  year  1774 
now  standing  &  what  the  deficiency  is,  to  asurtain  this  the  Com- 
mittee will  furnish  him  a  list  of  them.  An  Enquirey  may  be  also 
made  if  there  is  any  Lamps  in  the  Houses  where  the  Irons  are  or 
in  the  Neighborhood  of  them  And  if  a  sufficient  number  of  Lamps 
can  in  any  ways  be  Obtained.  That  then  the  Selectmen  be  requested 
to  Employ  a  Master  &  Lamp  Lighters  as  before  in  this  Business  and 
make  the  necessary  repairs  &  provide  such  Articles  as  may  be 
wanted. 

And  that  a  Tax  of  Six  hundred  pounds  be  Assessed  as  soon  as 
possible  on  the  Inhabitants  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  [293.] 
This  plan  into  Execution  to  be  called  the  Lamp  Tax  this  Tax  will 
be  about  one  sixtieth  part  of  the  last  Tax.  And  it  is  supposed  if 
made  with  nearly  the  same  Materials  may  be  soon  done  and  the 
Meeting  of  it  be  not  difficult,  a  person  who  pay'd  sixty  Dollars  in 
the  last  Tax  will  pay  about  one  in  this  —  The  Disposition  of  the 
Inhabitants  with  regard  to  lighting  the  Lamps  will  be  soon  known 
by  the  Collection  of  the  said  Tax. 

But  if  it  is  found  inexpedient  for  such  a  Tax  to  be  immediately 
Assessed  —  Then  the  Town  Treasurer  may  be  directed  to  borrow 
a  sufficient  Sum  for  the  said  purpose,  which  Sum  so  borrowed  shall 


334  City  Document  No.   80. 

be  repaid  out  of   the  first  Moneys  collected  from  the  next   Tax 
Assessed  on  the  Town. 

All  which  is  Submitted 

Thos.  Dawes  p  Order 

The  aforegoing  Report  having  been  read,  and  considered  the 
Town  came  into  the  following  Votes.      Viz1. 

Voted,  that  the  Sum  of  Six  hundred  Pounds  be  raised  by  a  Tax 
on  the  Polls  and  Rateable  Estates  of  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Town, 
for  the  purpose  of  procuring  such  Lamps  as  may  be  wanted  [294.] 
with  their  Materials,  and  to  defrey  the  Expences  which  may  be 
necessary  for  the  lighting  the  Lamps  ;  and  that  said  Sum  be  Added 
to  the  next  Tax  that  shall  be  issued  in    a  Seperate  Collum. 

Voted,  that  the  Selectmen  be  desired  to  draught  a  Subscription 
Paper  and  deliver  the  same  into  the  Hands  of  the  four  Collectors 
of  Taxes  who  are  hereby  directed  to  apply  to  the  Inhabitants 
forthwith,  to  obtain  by  way  of  Subscription  a  Sum  of  Money  not 
exceeding  Six  hundred  Pounds  for  the  purpose  of  purchasing 
Lamps  and  the  Materials  and  lighting  the  Same,  and  pay  the 
Money  into  the  Town  Treasury  as  soon  as  received  for  which  Sum 
the  Treasurer  is  hereby  impowered  and  directed  to  give  said  Sub- 
scribers a  Recept,  to  be  deducted  out  of  their  Next  Town  Tax. 

On  a  Motion  Voted,  that  the  Treasurer  be  directed  to  acquaint 
the  Severall  Collectors  of  Taxes  that  such  Collectors  as  shall  be 
Delinquent  with  respect  to  paying  in  their  Tax  on  the  first  of  Feb- 
ruary next,  his  Executions  will  be  then  Issued  against  such  Collector. 

Voted,  that  all  Matters  and  things  [295.]  which  remain  un- 
finished at  this  Meeting  be  referred  to  the  next  General  Town 
Meeting  then  to  be  Acted  upon. 

Thanks  Voted  to  the  Moderator. 

Then  the  Meeting  was  dissolved. 


INDEX    OF    NAMES. 


Adams,  2,  14,  52,  62,  65,  70,  75,  83,  86,  87,  89, 
90,  91,  97,  99,  100,  107, 115, 125, 136, 
137,  138,  150,  151,  171,  184,  185,193, 
198,  200,  211,  212,  217,  220,  221,  224, 
226,  235,  241,  243,  244,  245,  248,  253, 
254,  255,  256,  258,  261,  270,  271,  275, 
277,  292,  305,  306,  307,  308,  310,  315. 

Alexander,  301. 

Allen,  53,  60. 

Ainory,  92,  184,  185,  190,  229,  299. 

Andrews,  5, 114,  115,  236,  267. 

Appleton,  8,  20,  22,28,37,40,64,  73,81,83,98, 
123,  125,  127,  142,  143,  144,  145, 
147,  153,  155,  163,  164,  165,  167, 
180,  208,  209,  212,  220,  222,  231, 
266,  287,  290,  294,  304,  308,  309, 
311,  325,  326,  330. 

Arnold,  229. 

Atkins,  36,  161,  190,  266. 

Austin,  1,  2,  3,  40,  49,  63,  65,  67,  71,  98,  114, 
137,  151,  152,  156,  201,  203,  204,  245, 
258,  308. 

Avery,  15,  33,  34,  87,  124, 194,  245,  308. 

Avis,  175,  185. 

Aynes,  296. 

Ayres,  5,  51,  229,  296. 

Babcock,  271. 

Baker,  52,  54,  73,  92, 191,  230. 

Balch,  325,  326,  330. 

Bales,  94. 

Baley,  6,  11. 

Ballard,  4,  5,  6,  36,  40,  45,  46,  47,  48,  50,  51, 
70,  73,  77,  84,  88,  90,  95,  97,  99,  102, 
110,  136,  143,  149,  162,  174,  183,  186, 
187,  188,  190,  191,  228,  229,  232,  242, 
266,  295,  300. 

Bangs,  5,  51,  111,  175,  229,  296. 

Bant,  4,  13,  39. 

Barber,  2,  4,  36,  48,  49,  78,  92,  93,  97, 109, 116, 
136,  143,  162,  173,  183,187, 190,  225, 
228,  230,  236,  297,  300. 

Barnard,  51,92. 

Barrel,  2,  9,  12,  15,  16,  20,  22,  24,  54,  55,  56, 
58,  59,  63,  69,  70,  73,  84,  88,  92,  120, 
142,  148,  151,  166,  176,  177,  180, 1S4, 
191,  197,  199,  202,  212,  233,  238,  243, 
285,  301,  311,  319,  325,  326,  330. 

Barrell,  162,  185,  199,  256,  267,  294,  295,  299, 
300,  304. 

Barret,  3,  4,  8,  21,  31,  37,  39,  40,  50,  69,  70,  74, 
76,  84,  92,  93,  110,  113,  114, 117,119, 
123,  144,  162,  167,  171,  173, 176,  190, 
209,  210,  217,  220,  227,  236,  243,  252, 
257,  277,  278,  292,  308. 

Barrett,  21,  54,  63,  78, 152,  156,  167,  267. 

Bartlett,  324. 

Bass,  46, 143,  230,  235,  236. 

Baxter,  5,  188. 

Bayley,  96,  111,  174,  186,  191,  200,  240,  249, 
263,  264,  268,  297,  316. 

Beal,  198,  203. 

Belcher,  49,  97,  160,  162,  236. 

Belknap,  11,  95, 125,  181,  186, 190,  266. 

Bell,  27,  36,  51,  111,  118,  168,  174,  209,  210, 
229,  230,  236,  296,  329. 

Bennet,  51,  53. 

Bent,  191,  299. 


Bentley,  71. 

Bently,  25,  31,  35, 103. 

Bernard,  5,  111. 

Bigelow,  53, 120. 

Biggelow,  92,  118,  228. 

Bird,  51,  175,  229. 

Blaisdel,  5,  51,  111,  174,  232. 

Blaisdill,  296. 

Blake,  51. 

Blanchard,  60. 

Boardman,  266. 

Bond,  177. 

Bowdoin,  40,  83,  89,  95,  150,  151,  245,  255, 
256,  257,  307. 

Bowes,  3, 18,  50, 69, 102,  106, 110, 173,  227,  292. 

Boyce,  109. 

Boyer,  21,  30,  227,  230,  234, 235,  250,  252,  256, 
294,  300,312,315,316,  321. 

Boyls,  109, 143. 

Bradford,  92,  181, 183,  217,  222. 

Bradley,  5,  6,  51,  52. 

Bradshaw,  92. 

Brailsford,  89. 

Breck,  39,  60,  88,115,154. 

Brewer,  118,  120,  128. 

Brewster,  54. 

Brick,  58,  64,  91, 109,114,  118,  122,  140,  153, 
165, 168,  285,  296,  301. 

Bridgham,  166. 

Bright,  54. 

Brimer,  255. 

Brimmer,  11,  12, 16,  59,  98,114,  140,  162,  168, 
177,  197,  202,  230,  256,  299. 

Broders,  309. 

Bromfield,  20. 

Broom,  142,  151,  154,  255,  256,  270,  271,  280. 

Brown,  6,  12,  14,  33,  36,  37,  40,  45,  47,  53,  54, 
58,  71,  88,  90,91,  92,  93,  95,97,111, 
114,  115,  117,  118,  120,  15S,  159,  163 
170,  171 ,  172, 175, 176,  183,  192, 196, 
197,  220,  224,  225,  226,  229,  231,  233, 
235,  241,  266,  296,  299. 

Bruce,  91,  168. 

Bryant,  92,  118,  120. 

Bulfinch,  51,  110,178,229. 

Bullard,  11. 

Bumstead,  173,  296. 

Bumsted,  230. 

Burd,  296. 

Burrel,  113,  175. 

Burt,  235. 

Butler,  5,  51,  110,  174,  229. 

Butterfield,  242,  293. 

Buttler,  295. 

Byles,  5,  10,  189,  203,  232. 

Cable,  92, 

Cade,  111,  296,305. 

Call,  92. 

Callender,  4, 190,  267. 

Campbell,  6. 

Cane,  46. 

Carnes,  5,  10,  51,  60,  110,  113,  174,  229,  299. 

Cams,  92. 

Carrew,  177. 

Carter,  25,  31,  58,  71,  103,  198,  223,  228,  234, 

286,  320. 
Champney,  5,  51,  111,  173,174,  295. 


336 


City  Document  No.  80. 


Chase,  82. 

Cheever,  324. 

Child,  111. 

Clark,  5,  49,  53,  92,  97,  100,  101,  143,  173,177, 
184,  185,  1S7,  190,  193,  203,  268,  269, 
SOS,  309,  324. 

Clarke,  89,  186. 

Cleverly,  6. 

ClougK  51,  52,  60,  74,  111,  113,  175,  192,  229, 
296,  305. 

Cobbet,  5. 

Cobbit,  186,  188. 

Codman,  113,  267. 

Coggshell,  6. 

Cogswell,  74,  113,  143,  175,  186,  187,  2S0,  296. 

Collins,  11,  51,  136,  178,  229,  295. 

Collis,  270. 

Column,  22S. 

Colson,  5,  37,  40,  47,  51,  89, 100,  111,  123,  128, 
175,  191,  230,  296. 

Couant,  50,  228. 

Condav,  116. 

Condy,  12,  89. 

Conent,  128,  262. 

Conner,  242,  293,  306. 

Cook,  52,  92,  93,  118,  120, 143,  175,  204. 

Ooolidge,  54,  92,  113,  267. 

Cooper,  2,  3,  4,  28,  34,  37,  40,  48,  49,  50,  64, 
79,  80,  107,  108,  109,  115,  125,  129, 
148,  155,  158,  159,  172,  173,  219,  225, 
226,  228,  275,  290,  292,  293,  322. 

Copeland,  S9.  230,  296. 

Corbit,  52,  111. 

Cotta,  111. 

Cowell,  5. 

Crafts,  4,  5,  15,  19,  36,  75,  76,  77,  78,  95,  100, 
102,  104,  106,  249,  328. 

Cranch,  151,  308. 

CraQe,  111,229. 

Crocker,  54. 

Croswell,  198,  223,  234. 

Cruft,  190,  192. 

Cudworth,  7,  59, 117,  118, 122,  240. 

Cumberfoot,  6. 

Curies,  92. 

Curtis,  52,  89,  109,  111,  175,  230,  296,  310. 

Cushing,  20,  21,  22,  29,  31,  101,  113,  124,  150, 
151,  193,  245,  307. 

Dall,  71. 
Danfurth,  15. 
Daniels,  51,  111,  175,229. 
Davenport,  198. 
Daverson,  53. 
Davidson,  123. 

Davis,  4,  16,  18,  26,  32,  34,  37,  39,  49,  50,  53, 
54,  55,  56,  62,  65,  70,  73,  74,  75,  76,  77, 
87,  88,  89,  92,  93,  100,  109,  110,  115, 
136,150,  151,  152,  153,  154,156,  161, 
165,  167,  108,  173,  177,  184,  193,  196, 
217,  220,  221,  223,  228,  230,  231,  233, 
234,  238,  239,  240,  245,  266,  271,  286, 
2'.i:;,  308,  309,  320,  321. 
Dawes,  52,  56,  65,  75,  76,  78,   114,  156,  165, 
167,  171,  180,  183,  187,  208,  236,  246, 
300,311,317,323,334. 
Daws,  7,  8,  11,  10,  16,  21,  24,  62,  67,  68,  69, 
83,  99,  113,  114,  125,  136,  148,  151, 
152,  153,  161,  162,  166,  170,  171,  196, 
209,  210,  211,  221,  222,  226,  237,  238, 
241,  247,  260,  280,  294,  295,  304,  308, 
309,  310,  311,  312,  315,  322,  325,  326, 
328,  329,  330. 
Dellaway,  111,  174,  206. 
Deming,  151,299. 
Dennie,  91,  151,  164. 
Dennlson,  71. 
Devens,  28,  89, 155. 
Dexter,  308,  324. 
Dinsdel,  113,239. 
Dinedelt,  175,  232. 
Doak,  191. 
Doake,  188. 
Doan,  113. 


Dogget,  6. 

Dorr,  3,  4,  8,  16,  34,  37,  40,  49,  88,  S9, 107, 108, 

112,  120,  154,  168,  169,  171,  172,  183, 

187,  227,  232,  236,  292. 
Downe,  185. 
Dowse,  46. 
Dyer,  4,  5,  6,  51,  52,  53,  111,  117, 120, 175, 185, 

229,  237,  296. 

Eckert,  111. 

Eckley,  172,  307. 

Edes,  7,  36,  37,  40,  45,  47,  52,  88,  S9,  90,  95, 

100,  118,  123,  151,  173,   186,  187,  266, 

296  297 
Edwards,  109,  266. 
Eleot,  102,  190. 
Eliot,  50,  74,  131,  135,  148,  173,  184,  185,  235, 

266,  292,  311. 
Elliot,  294,  304. 
Ellison,  5. 
Eustis,  5,  113. 
Everet,  77. 

Fairservice,  44. 

Fallas,  89,  316. 

Fallass,  175,  186,  187,  264,  267,  316. 

Farmer,  231,  239. 

Farnam,  111. 

Farriugton,  109, 165. 

Fellows,  3,  4,  7,  39,  40,  49,  50,  54,  55,  62,  74, 
78,  79,  80,  91,  92,  10S,  110,  158, 
159,  160,  162,  170,  172,  174,  176, 
227,  228,  267,  292,  293,  294,  298. 

Fenno,  73,  111,  113,  174,  229,  296. 

Fisher,  151,  193,245,308. 

Fleet,  6,  233,  298. 

Flood,  36. 

Ford,  50,92. 

Fosdick,  177. 

Foster,  6,  37,  39,  45,  53,  64,  73,  93,  122,  185, 
229. 

Fowle,  235. 

Fraizer,  95. 

Frazier,  4,  8,  11,  24,  40,  49,  98,  102,  108,  136, 
142,  143,  145,  162,  171,  172,180,  192, 
199,  225,  227,  228,  258,  262,  265,267, 
269,  270,  292,  293,  298,  325. 

Freeland,  111. 

Freeman,  91. 

Frobisher,  118. 

Fullerton,  59, 123. 

Gage,  328. 

Gammel,  ISO. 

Gardner,  13,  37, 151,  181,  189, 195,  230. 

Gates,  39,  42,  43,  44. 

Gedney,  53, 192. 

Gerry,  307. 

Geyer,  242,  297. 

Gidney,  6. 

Gooch,18,  75, -177. 

Gore,  173,  184,  296. 

Gorham,  101. 

Gould,  299. 

Grant,  4,  13,  40,  47,  59,  89,  162,  232,  241,  290. 

Gray,  1,  2,  6,  15,  18,  28,  37,  51,  52,  53,  54,  55, 
56,  63,  64,  68,  70,  73,  83,  89,  93,  95,  98, 
102,  106,  107,  113,  114,  115,  119,  123, 
127,  129,136,  137,  138,  145,  149,  151, 
154,  155,  156,  158,  159,  160,  162,  163, 
164,  171,  176,  177,  180,  184,  185,  193, 
232,  239,  240. 

Greanleaff,  150. 

Green, 4,  5,  6,  7,  52,  53,  73,  92,  100,  111,  113, 
123,  151,  175,  178,  229,  230,  233,  236, 
291,  290,297,  299. 

Greene,  228. 

Grccnleuf,  34,  49,  60,108,189,  195,  266,  306, 
310,  320. 

Greenleaff,  1,  2,  3,  12,  189,  315. 

Greenough,  8,  4, 12,  49,  161,298. 

<  trenough,  40. 

Grfffig,  204. 


Index  of  Names. 


337 


Haley,  5. 

Hall,  11,  12,  36,  92,  190,  191,  266. 

Hamlin,  12,  52,  175,  230,  296,  299. 

Hamling,  111. 

Haramat,  52. 

Hancock,  1,  3,  4,  5,  7,  10,  13,  16, 18, 19,  20, 27, 
28,  29,  31,  32,  47,  48,  49,  50,  52,  58. 
59,  62,  63,  64,  65,  70,  72,  73,  74,  82; 
83,  104, 105, 106,  107,  108,  110, 112, 
116, 136, 137, 138, 145, 146, 150, 155, 
158, 159, 171, 173, 174, 193,220, 221, 
222,  225, 228, 231,  243, 245, 263, 271, 
290,  307,  322. 

Hancok,  297. 

Harris,  6,  53,  60, 117,  185,  187. 

Hart,  46. 

Hatch,  16,  17,  18,  19,  59,  76,  77,  96,  110,  174, 
228,  249,  251,  293,  328. 

Hayden,  111,  175,  188,  229,  296,  301. 

Hayley,  111,  230. 

Hayward,  11. 

Head,  228. 

Heath,  16,  69, 150. 

Henderson,  7,  8, 12,  28,  240. 

H  end  ley,  87,"  92, 164. 

Hei.dly,  39. 

Henley,  87,  95. 

Hewes,  3,  187,  188. 

Hews,  50,  77,  102,  186,  189,  192. 

Heyley,  51,  175. 

Higgerson,  73. 

Higginson,  64,  70,  87,  88,  98,  99,  100,  115,  14 
142,  153,  154,  155,  162,  163,  /l65, 
168,  169,  176,  180,  192,  196*199 
205,  206,  212,  217,  220,  246,  247, 
252,  254,  271. 

Hill,  75,  92,  100,  104,  266. 

Hinckley,  36. 

HinUley,113. 

Hitchborne,  104. 

Hitch-bourn,  277,  285. 

Hitchbourne,  221. 

Hitchburne,  7,  11,  52,  64,  74,  88,  190,  230,  266, 
296. 

Hodgden,  162, 163,  220. 

Hodgen,  236. 

Hodgsdon,  238. 

Hodsdon,  202. 

Hodson,  141. 

Holbrook,  25,  31,  57,  71,  103,  123,  124. 

Holeyday,  263. 

Holland,  173,  239. 

Holleyday,  263. 

Hollyday,  240,  242,  243,  263. 

Homans,  123. 

Hoskins,  79,  80,  SS,  90,  92,  95,  118. 

Houghton,  92,  118,  120. 

How,  295. 

Howard,  51,  111,  115,  152,  174,  229,  244,  296. 

Hubbard,  39,  45,  92,  110,  15S,  159,  171,  172, 
290,  292. 

Hunnewell,  47. 

Hunt,  25,  31,  35,  71,  102,  103,  104,  147,  191, 
197,  220,  223,  233,  286,  293,  320. 

Hurd,  101. 

Hyslop,  299. 

Inches,  4,  8,  16,  39,  64. 
Ingersol,  50. 

Jackson,  113,  150. 

Jarvis,  73,  76,  77,  79,  80,  83,  88,  89,  90,  93,  95, 
98,  100,  138,  142,  144,  154,  161,  162, 
163,  176,  180,  193,  196,  228,  246,  247, 
254,  271,  277,  2S5,  294,  295,  304,  310, 
311. 

Jeffries,  4,  7, 14,  18,  25,  26,  27,  51,  53,  54,  55, 
65,  68,  105,  112,  114,  146,  147,  149, 
158,  159,  174,  177,  202,  208,  210,  227, 
234,  240,  250,  256,  2S7,  298,  321,331. 

Jenkins,  50,  51,  297. 

Jepson,  11,  14,  53, 123,  236. 

Johnson,  33,  236. 

Johonnot,  32,  33,  34,  92,  144. 


Johonnott,  33. 

Johonott,  33. 

Jones,  74, 16S,  188, 191,  230,  239,  256,  260,  266, 

293,  299. 
Jonsey,  92. 
Joy,  11. 

Kemp,  299,  305. 

Kennedy,  40,  47,  59,  60,  88,  123,  230,  293,  296. 

Kent,  14,  277,  279,  287,  289,  315. 

Ketchum,  92. 

Ketchup,  92. 

Kettle,  50,  231. 

King,  92. 

Kirkwood,  232,  233. 

Kitchen,  93. 

Knap,  118,  120. 

Kneeland,  4S,  SS,  91,  92,  95,  104,  105,  107, 143, 

162,  185,  233,  298. 
Knox,  54,  71. 

La  Payette,  217,  218. 

Lambert,  5,  6,  36,  53,  58,  74, 113, 174, 175,  230. 

Langdon,  162,  236. 

Langford,  329. 

Langley,  230,  297. 

Larkin,  92,  185. 

Larking,  190,  266. 

Law,  55,  92, 

Leaverett,  60. 

Lincoln,  245,  307. 

Livingston,  28. 

Loring,  18,  136,  184,  229,  230,  236,  296. 

Lotherop,  115,  150. 

Lothrop,  246. 

Love,  93. 

Lovel,  113,  246,  257,  308,  310. 

Lovell,  246,  247,  256. 

Lovering,  37,  40,  45,  47,  89. 

Lowder,  6,  117,  185,  233,  298. 

Lowel,  128,  308,  311,  321,  325. 

Lowell,  4,  12,  18,  48,  49,  50,  53,  54,  58,  59,  60, 
63,  64,  67,  83, 102,  103, 106, 107, 108, 
109,  110, 114,  115, 119, 127,  129,  136, 
143,  150,  151,  152,156,  160,  161,  164, 
171, 174,  176, 178,  193,  196,  20S,  209, 
220,  221,  222,  228,  230,  236,  245,  246, 
247,  271,  293,  299,  316,  319. 

Lucas,  6,  39,  50,  52,  S9,  91,  109,  112,  113,  114, 
128,  154,  162,  163,  178,  183,  187,  212, 
220,  222,  224,  225,  231,  236,  238,  256, 
267,  285,  297,  300. 

Mackay,   84,  85,  97,  108,  143,  170,  172,  184, 

185,  226,  227,  232. 
Mackey,  S5,  162,  197,  236. 
Macky,  292. 
Magner,  232,  239,  240. 
Marsh,  186,  187. 
Marshall,  191. 
Marsters,  329. 
Marston,  12,  59. 
Martin,  78. 
Mason,  3,  50,  56,  92,  106,  107,  109,  110,  113, 

117,  124,  171,173,  199,  212,  227,  228, 

236,  292. 
Masters,  5,  52,  111,  175,  230,  296,  329. 
Matchet,  93,  96. 
Mather,  61. 
May,  4,  51,   53,  117,  168,  174,  185,  233,   267, 

298. 
McCloud,  1S8,  299. 
McElary,  296. 
McElroy,  230,329. 
McFadden,  5, 188, 192,  296,  306. 
McLane,  37,  242. 
McLeod,  232. 
McNeil,  229,  295. 
McNiel,  4,  37,  299. 
Melvil,  50,  89,  93. 
Melvill,  79,  80,  99,  108, 110,  116,  228,  236,  255, 

258,  293,  299,  316. 
Melville,  76,  109,  163,  173,  174,  212,  224,  230, 
231,  236,  266,  297. 


338 


City  Document  No.  80. 


196,  197,  199,  205,  206, 
289,  290,  306, 


Melvin,  76. 

Miller,  191,  205,  206,  299. 

Minot,  224,  225,  226. 

MiDzey,  51. 

Mollin'eux,  91. 

Monk,  2,  10S,  172,  226. 

Moor,  5,  51,  229. 

Moraton,  26S. 

Moreton,  78,  333. 

Morrel,  177. 

Morrill,  299. 

Morton,  2,  4,  22,  32,  4S,  55,  60,  63,  129,  131, 

212,  269,  285,  294,  295,  305,  332. 
Mountford,  190. 
Mourton,  277. 

Neal,  5. 

Neat,  296. 

Newel,  305. 

Newell,  6,  21,  31, 109,  128,  177, 190,  236,  256, 

267,  311,  329. 
Newman,  113. 
Nightingale,  92. 
Niles,  193. 

Norcross,  51,  110,  171,  229. 
Noyes,  34,  37,  79,  Sit,  128,  280. 
Nyles,  151,  245,  308. 

■Oliver,  58, 115, 175. 

Orn,  150. 

Orne,  193,  245,  307. 

Osgood,  249. 

Otis,  24,  83,  144,  14   . 

209,  210,  212,  247,  26 

308. 
Owen,  5,  51,  111,  175,  230,  296. 

Page,  5, 174,  229,  296. 

Paine,  323. 

Palfrey,  107. 

Parker,  18,  36,  74,  92,  143,  162,  183,  184,  185, 

187,  190,  264,  266,  269,  316. 
Parkman,  2,  36,  93,  111,  128, 162, 193, 226,  235, 

236,  245,  266,  290. 
Parks,  6,  52,  53,  110,  111,  113,  118,  123. 
Parsons,  293. 

Partridge,  3,  50,  59,  60,  110, 173,  227,  292. 
Patten,  118,  232,  293. 
Patterson,  172,  226,  291. 
Payne,  64,  115, 151, 154, 158, 168, 176, 199,  202, 

212,  220,  221,  240,  243,  252,  255,  256, 

259,  265,  266,  268,  270,  271,287,299, 

308,  316,  319,  325. 
Payson,  229,  286,  321,  324. 

I'fiEtliG     175 

Peirce',  100, 115,  162,  163,  166,  236,  255. 

l'eke,  113. 

Peniberton,  189. 

Pepper,  34. 

Perkins,  92. 

Perry,  52. 

Phelps,  205,  206,  207,  209,  249,  253. 

Philips,  310. 

Phillips,  3,  4,  18,  33,  50,  79,  80,  98,  100,  110, 
151,  173,  193,  199,  212,  227,  228, 
231,  236,  242,  245,  255,  258,  267, 
292,  293,  297,  308,  309,  327,  328. 

Pico,  5,  51,  109,  111,  175,  230,  296. 

Pierce,  39,  58,  89,  91,92, 114, 115, 118, 120, 181. 

Pitts,  1,2,3,  18,24,92,10?,  150,151,193,245, 
252,  308,  309,  319,  320. 

Plimpton,  230. 

Pollard,  ■;-,. 

Porter,  92. 

Powell,  3,  50,  64,  110,  150,  151,  173,  193,  227, 
245,  256,  292,  308. 

Prentice,  54,  71,  73,  79,  80,  91,  92,  100,  109, 
270,311,321,326,  330. 

Presson,  229. 

Preston,  1,  2,  3,  40,  47,  48,  49,  106,  107,  308, 
120,162,  170,  17],  172,  224,  225, 
226   2-°l    2.°  7   290   291. 

Price,  7,  8,  13,  16,  21,  22,' 24,  28,  30,  34,  37,  40, 
48,  49,  54,  58,  60,  69,  77,  84,  87,  88, 90, 


91,  102,  104,  106,  107,  108,  114,  137, 
138,  154,  158,  159,  160,  168,  171,  172, 
180,  192,  199,  225,  226,  227,  256,  261, 
265,  271,  280,  287,  290,  292,  294,  304, 
305,  308,  309,  310,  316,  319,  333. 
Prince,  58,  60,  74,  78,  96,  114,  115,  120,  162, 

178,  181,  184,  230,  236,  296,  301. 

Procter,  3,  16,  54,  59,78,  79,  80,  93.  110,  116, 

128, 141,  142, 173,  191,  224,  236,  259. 

Procter,  4,  34,  36,  50,  59,   100,  139,  141,  145, 

146,  160,  161,   163,  173,   227,  228, 

244,  249,  251,   258,   259,  261,   266, 

271,  292,  293,  297,  328. 

Pulling,  4,  50,  53,  74,  79,  80,  88, 110,  116,  117, 

162,  173,  190,  228,  233,  297,  298. 
Pulsipher,  52. 

Rand,  92. 

Ranger,  5,  51,  111,  174,  229,  295. 

Rashambeau,  279. 

Raynard,  111,  175. 

Read,  75,  118,  124,  184,  185,  236. 

Keed,  10,  16,  44,  113,  267. 

Reviere,  4,  50. 

Rhodes,  109. 

Rice,  186. 

Richardson,  88. 

Roads,  47. 

Roberts,  4. 

Robey,  162. 

Kobins,  92. 

Roby,  177. 

Rochambeau,  278. 

Rochambeaue,  278. 

Rodes   293. 

Rogers,  51,'  111,  113,  180,  188,  229,  242,  293, 


RoshanVbeau,  276. 
Rouse,  181. 

Rowe,  37,  39,  75,  84,  85,  88,  91,  93,  95,  98 
102,  103,  138,  152,  156,  193,  200 
206,  238,  246,  247,  308,  312. 
Ruddock,  266,  297. 

Ruggles,  37,  47,  49,  53,  56,  68,  70,  71,  79 
86,  91, 100,  116,  153,  166, 171, 
185,  189,  228,  233,  242,  243, 
297,  298,  299. 
Rumnil.  299. 
Russel,  176,  230,  319. 
Russell,  39,  73,  92,  176,  180, 182,192,  199, 
267,  268,  269. 

Sale,  324. 
Salter,  190. 
Sargent,  324. 
Savage,  33,  173,  240. 

Scollay,  2,  3,  4,  37,  40,  48,  49,  50,  54,  75, 
94,  103,  108, 109,  137,  138,  154, 
160,  168,  171,   172,  173,   197, 
225,  226,  228,    258,  266,   286, 
292,  293,  328. 
Scolly,  258. 
Searl,  192. 
fScars,  54,  71,  73,  84,  88,  89,  90,  91,  93,  95 

166,  236,  271,  280,  285. 
Seers,  88. 
Sever,  150. 
Sharp,  8,  11,  37,  39,  73,  79,  80,  88,  183, 

188,  203,  230,  296. 
Shaw,  4,  7,  36,  50,  88,  109,  116,  121,  122, 

106,  173,  186,  228,  240,  249,  263, 

293,  316. 
Shed,  37,  47,  89,  91,  95,  230,  297. 
Sheppard,  185. 
Hherburn,  268. 
Sherman,  38,  113,  175. 
Sigoney,  54, 161,298. 
Sigorney,  6,  11,  36,  74,  88,  117,  128,  175, 

191,231,  233.  266,  290. 
Sigourney,  50,  190,255. 
Hillman,  129. 

Simkins,  4,  14,  109,  112,  124,  166,  260. 
SiminH,  251. 
Bimpfeina,  49, 61,  64,68,128,190,  236,249, 


101, 
205, 


,  80, 
173, 
263, 


158, 
210, 
290, 


\ 


187, 


162, 
266, 


Index  of  Names. 


339 


Simpson,  5,  52,  113,  175,  18S,  232,  243,   293, 

296. 
Skinner,  6,  52,  113,  230,  297,  300. 
Sloon,  92. 
Smith,  3,40,  50,  73,80,  83,  88,92,  110,  140, 

154,  164,   166,  173,  177,  180,  192, 

197,  212,   227,232,  262,  267,  292, 

293,  294,  297. 
Snelling,  175. 
Soames,  236. 
Somes,  91,  191. 
Speakman,  184,  308. 
Spear,  5,  52,  53,  74,  118,  123,  175,  230,  296, 

299. 
Speekraan,  93. 
Spooner,  150. 
Sprague,  60, 198. 
Stagpole,  118. 
Slagpoole,  120. 
Stanton,  128. 
Stimpson,  229. 
Stoddar,  296. 

Stoddard,  27,  111,  174,  296. 
Stodder,  229,  295. 

Storer,  7,  52,  83,  114,  123,  14S,  177,  245. 
Storey,  187, 
Story,  183,  268. 
Stutson,  174,  229. 
Sullivan,  275,  277,  305,  308,  309,  311,  317,  322, 

329,  332,  333. 
Sumner,  7,  36,  53,  54,  55,  58,  60,  93,  116, 121, 
122,  151,   166,  186,  193,   200,  230, 
240,  245,  249,  262,  296,  297,  316. 
Sutton,  74. 

Sweetser,  3,  6,  8,  39,  50,  52,  73,  84, 108,  110, 
112,  113,  117,124,  131,  173,  178, 
222,  227,  231,  292,  326,  330. 
Sweetzer,  297. 
Syllimau,  151. 
Symmes,  4,  5. 

Symms,  49,  60,  73,  116,  162, 174,  183,  187. 
Syms,  50,  110,  190,  228,  236. 

Templeman,  228. 

Thayer,  50,  58, 115,  191,  230,  297,  308. 

Thomas,  6,  204,  297. 

Thompson,  55,  89, 117,  121, 122,  166, 178,  186, 
200,  240,  249,  263,  297,  316. 

Thwinc,  113,  178. 

Tiieston,  4,  25,  31,  37,  50,  58,  71,  99,  103,  110, 
162,  174,  191,  197,  198,  223,  228, 
234,  236,  286,  293,  320,  321. 

Todd,  5,  51,  229,  296. 

Torey,  240. 

Torrey,  55, 122, 166. 

Tony,  7,  116. 

Tory,  231. 

Tracy,  193,  245. 

Tuekerman,  52,  111,  175,  184,  185,  231,  297. 

Tuder,  47,  48. 

Tudor,  48,  60,  62,  65,  100,  102,  103,  104,  105, 
107,  112,  113,  115,  116,  122, 124,  125, 
131,  139,  140, 141,  142,  144, 145,  146, 
147,  148,  149,  151,  158,  159,  167, 178, 
180,  184,  190, 194,  196,  231,  277,  279, 
280,  285,  295,  300,  305,  311,  322,  325, 
332. 

Tuffts,  151, 193,  232. 

Tufts,  245,  293,  308. 


Tyler,  177. 
Tyng,  16,  326. 

Uran,  5,  40,  47,  51,  89,  111,  174,  229,  296. 

Van  Ranselier,  139. 

Varnum,  92. 

Vernon,  177,  190,  266. 

Vezie,  1SS,  189,  191. 

Vinal,  223,  224,  234,  286,  287,  321. 

Vinall,  234. 

Viomenil,  276,  277,  278. 

Wait,  173. 

Wales,  5,  51,  111,  175,  30S. 
Walker,  33,  192. 

Walley,  6,  8,  10, 16,  21,  28,  31,  32,  34,  37,  52, 
55, 56,  62,  65,  67,  69,  70,  73,  88,  89,  95, 
100,  10],  131,  136,  143,  145,  152,  153, 
156,  162,  165,  204,  205,  206,  208,  212, 
217,  220,  230,  253,  256,  267,  268,  271, 
309,  310,  312,  316,  319,  321,  331. 
Wallis,  173,  177. 
Wally,  39. 
Ward,  150. 
Warren,  150,  245,  263,  279,  280,  286,  307,  322, 

3U. 
Washington,  17,  278. 

Waters,  109,  113,  114,  116,  120,  144,  154,  162, 
163,  182,  202,  225,  230,  236,  238,  293, 
311,317. 
Webb,  4,  12,  16,  37,  39,  49,  50,  52,  59, 110, 161, 
162,  163,  173,  174,  227,  228,  236,  267, 
292,  293,  299. 
Webster,  236. 

Welch,  113,  175,  184,  185,  203,  229,  290. 
Wells,  59,  92,  162,  236. 
Welsh,  290,  291,  324. 

Wendell,  3,  18,  24,  83,  149,  150,  151,  235,  299. 
Wentworth,  118. 
Whalley,  224. 
Wheeler,  5,  7,  52,  293. 
Wheelwright,  5,  51,  92. 

White,  3,  6,  10,  39,  50,  51,  52,  90,  94,  109,  110, 
112,113,123,136,151,  173,  174,  178, 
193,  197,  227,  229,  231,  235,  262,  266, 
292,  297,  306,  308. 
Whiting,  229. 
Whitney,  186,  232,  293. 
Whitwell,  3,  8,  50,  92,  110,  173,  220,  227,  232, 

292,  326,  330. 
Wier,  37,  59. 
Wight,  18,  196. 
Wild,  173. 

Williams,  3,  4,  6,  12,  21,  22,  40,  45,  49,  52,  59, 
92,  93,  102,  112,  124, 178,  236,  264, 
266,  268,  293,  316. 
Willis,  85. 
Williston,175. 

Willson,  47,  79,  88,  89,  90,  91,  93,  95. 
Wilson,  80. 
Winslow,  92,  299. 
Wintherop,  110. 
Winthrop,  4,  22,    28,   49,  50,  174,  177,   228, 

252. 
Wiswell,  53,  58.  ' 
Woart,  1S6,  187. 
Woodward,  5. 
Wyer,  123. 


INDEX    TO    PLACES    AND    SUBJECTS. 


Accounts,  116,   117,  121,   122,  157,   181,  1S2, 
195,  199,  201,  211,  223,  258,  26S, 
327, 32S. 
to  audit,  7,  177,  300,  312. 
of  town  treasurer,  7,   52,  53,    65, 
114,117,201,  202,230,231,  240, 
243,248,  254,  255,  259,  260. 
overseers  of  the  poor,  7,53,  114, 

177,  230,  231. 
sale  and  purchase  of  fire-arms, 

11,  12. 
collectors,  122,  123. 
Mr.  Justice  Greenleaf ,  189,  195. 
Amasa  Davis,  239,  241. 
with  board  of  war,  244. 

selectmen,  249. 
expenditures  of  the  war,  249. 
Cupt.  Gustavus  Fellows,  158. 
Act,  exclusion,  32. 

(See  also  Renegades.) 
against  Monopoly  and  Forestalling,  46, 
47,81. 
(See  also  Bill   to  prevent  forestalling 
and  monopoly.) 
to    supply   the    families  of  certain  non- 
commissioned   officers     and    soldiers 
with  necessaries,  115. 
relative  to  taxes,  169. 
tender  (so-called),  177. 
for  the  more  effectual  observance  of  the 
Lord's  Day,  277,  280-85. 
Address  to  John  Hancock,  158. 

Marquis  Lafayette,  217-18. 
Baron  Viomenil,  276-77. 
Advertising,  see  Newspapers. 
Agriculture,  13,  314. 
Aliens,  71. 

law  relative  to,  71. 
(See  also  Laws.) 
Allies,  276-77. 

Almshouse,  10,  29,  30,  56,  176,  191,  242,  249, 
315,  318. 
supplies  for,  10,  30,  54,  55,  56,  57, 

98,  242. 
appropriation  for,  57,  149. 
pressing  need  of,  1S9,  190,  205, 

242. 
keeper  of,  239. 

salary  of,  239. 
Amusements,  228. 

Anniversary,  change   of   the  institution  of, 
on  the  5th  of  March,  report 
mi,  304-305. 
of  the  Independence,  291,  ?94, 
295,  305. 
Apple  Island,  an   innoculating  hospital  at, 
to  erect,  323,  324. 
[ ...  i  also  Islands.) 
{See  al  o  I  (ospital.) 
Appropriation  for  the  almshouse,  57. 

families  of  non-com- 
missioned     officers 
and   soldiers,   61. 
building      new       school- 
o  i  --,   2.;s. 
Armies,  standing,  ruinous  tendency  of,  2,  9, 
4-<,  4'.),  107,  108,  171,  172,  225,  226, 
290. 
foreign,  214. 


Arms  and  ammunition,   11,   12,   67,   68,   77, 
244,     251,    252,    258,    259,    326,    327, 
328. 
proceeds  of  damaged  fire-arms,  11. 
purchase  of,  12,  59. 
assigned  to  the  town,  59,  231. 
firing  of  small,  on  the  Common,  326. 

Neck,  326. 
poor  quality  of,  77. 
small  arms  to  return,  244. 
loan  of,  asked  for,  77. 
list  of,  77. 

disposal  of  eighty,  to  militia  officers  of 
the  town,  five  hundred  eighty-seven 
to  Col.  Edward  Proctor,  78. 
cartridges,  78,  231,  244,  251,  259. 
powder,  213. 
Army,  continental,  see  Continental. 

neglect  of,  23. 
Artillery,  state,  77. 

(See  also  Troops.) 
Assay  masters,  6,  52, 113,  178,  230,  297. 
Assembly  or  General  Court,  6,  8,  18,  22,  34, 
42,  47,  59,  61, 
63,  64,  65,  66, 
84,  102,  112, 
120,  122,  128, 
133,  135,  136, 
137,  138,  140, 
142,146,  153, 
154,  155,  160f 
167,  169,  175, 
176,  179,  180, 
196,  197,  198, 
200,  203,  204, 
»  205,207,  2 14- 

lS,   219,    221, 
242,  246,    247, 
249,  254,    256, 
257,  258,    264, 
265,273,   277, 
279,  283,   285, 
309,310,   312, 
315,  319,   322, 
324,331. 
demand  lor  jus- 
tice, 20. 
resolve       of 
(Sept.     2  0, 
1778),  10,  14. 
resolve       of 
(J  u  n  e     1  0. 
1778),  26,  27. 
resolve     of 
(J  une     1  0, 
1777),  11. 
resolve      of 
(May  6,  1777), 
78. 
rcBolvd      of 
(Dec.  2),  161. 
resolve     of 
(Dec.  4),  165, 
167,  168. 
memorial   to,  9, 
ID,  13,  19,  20, 
21,  280-85. 
exclusion     act, 
:;2, :::;,  34,  35. 


Index  to  Places  and  Subjects. 


341 


Assembly  or  General  Court,  petitioned       to 
import    grain 
from      New 
York     and 
Connecticut, 
38. 
bill  to   prevent 
foresta 1 1  i  n  g 
and     monop- 
oly, 38,  42,  43, 
44,  46,  47. 
legislative   and 
exe  c  utive 
branches    of, 
abuses,  23. 
to    enact    laws 
relative        to 
renegades,  28. 
resolve  for  pro- 
curement   of 
clothing     for 
the  army,  29, 
30. 
to  supply  fam- 
ilies   of    cer- 
tain non-com- 
missioned of- 
ficers  and 
soldiers,  115. 
measures       t  o 
take  for  pro- 
tection of  the 
se  a-c  oasts, 
119. 
resolve  of  the, 
relative       t  o 
,  f  orrnin  g    a 

new  constitu- 
tion, 83. 
representatives 
elected  to,  18, 
24,  61,  62,  63, 
86. 
Assessors,  7,  30,  59,  60,  106,  116,  121,  145, 
149,  154,  163,  167,  174,  179,  182, 
194,  198,  207,  209,  212,  217,  219, 
237,  253,  254,  262,  264,  269,  270, 
318,  325. 
choice  of,  6,  7,  53,  116,  117, 1S5, 

187,  192,  229,  232,  233,  298. 
abatement  of  taxes,  7, 10,  26,  53, 
114,  117,  121,  123,  1S3,  197,  237, 
248,  249,  251,  253,  263,  279,  287, 
2S9,  298. 
books  of,  179,  251,  256,  288. 
ask  for  allowance,  30. 

granted,    31, 
106,        149, 
325. 
to  levy  taxes  more  equitably,  56. 
.    allowance,  72,  106,  221. 

to  prepare  abstract  of  valuation 

of  the  town,  18U. 
in  case  of  want  of  valuation,  182. 
Assize  of  bread,  see  Breadstuff  s. 
Attorney-general,  the,  274. 

Bakers,  36,  46,  92. 

combination  of,  to  prevent,  266,  267. 
{See  also  Trades.) 
Barbers,  79. 

'{See  also  Trades.) 
Barracks,  petition  to  erect,  69. 
Battalions,  see  Troops. 

Battery,  North,  136,   138,  149,  185,  187,  188, 
220. 
to  sell,  189,  220.      - 
South,  153,  155. 
Beacon  Hill,  57,  72. 

trespasses  on,  57. 
Beef,  10,  81,  102,  152,  153,  157,  165,  166,  167, 
16S,  169,  181,  204,  205,  206,  207,  208, 
209,  242,  249,  253,  264. 
{See  also  Provisions.) 


Bell's  wharf,  92. 

{See  also  Wharves.) 
Bells,  ringing   of,  22,   29,  143,  184,    193,  243, 
307. 
omitted,  85; 
ringers,  29. 
tolling   of,  4S,  107,   171,  225,  290,  331, 

332. 
presentation   of  a  bell  to    a    school- 
house,  263. 
Bill  of  Rights,  23,  128,  129,  283,  284. 

to  prevent  forestalling  and  monopoly, 
38. 
Bills,  rate,  see  Taxes, 
hand,  SI,  260. 
of  credit,  154,  213,  221,  242,  249,  250, 

260. 
Port,  243. 
Bilrica  [Billerica],  90. 
Blacksmiths,  79. 

{See  also  Trades.) 
Blanks  to  print,  147. 

Blankets  for  the  army,  see  Continental  army. 
Board  of  War,  29,  32,  33,  231,  244,  251,  255, 
259,  327. 
corn  in  the  hands  of,  to  dis- 
tribute to  the  poor,  29. 
case  of  Mr.  Johonnet  brought 

before,  32,  33,  34. 
resolve  of,  32,  33. 

opposition  to,  34. 
accounts  with,  244,  257,  258, 

259,  326,327,328. 
town's  arms,  59,  231,  326. 
to  wait  upon,  97. 
books  of,  328. 
Boards,  surveyor  of,  see  Wood. 
Bonds,  see  Sureties. 
Books,  tax,  7,   143,  144,  145,  163,  179,   182, 

town,  see  Records. 

Boston,  1,  3,  11,  13,  14,  15,  16,  IS,  19,  21,  22, 

24,  26,  27,  28,  32,  36,  39,  41,  45,  47, 

61,  67,  72,  82,  S4,  86,  88,  89,   90,  97, 

101,  102,  105,  106,  108,  125,  131,135, 

140,  151,  152,  158,159,  160,  165, 16S, 

169,  170,  172, 192,  194,  1W6,  200,204, 

20S,  211,  218,  219,  224,  226,  241,242, 

244,  245,  216,  258,  261,  265,  267,  270, 

273,  275,  276,  277,  278,  279,  280,  281, 

288,  289,  291,  302,  3U7,  303,309,  317, 

319,  321,  323,  3^4,  325. 

Common,  horses  going  at  large  on, 

to  prevent,. 59,  60,  61. 

injury   to,    by  passing  of 

carriages,  221. 
school   in  the,   223,    224, 

234,  321,  329. 
firing  of  small  arms  at  the 

bottom  of,  326. 
burying  ground  on,  302. 
incumbrances  on,  311. 
i     Gaol,  32,  33. 
-  harbor,  to  fortify,  74. 

{See  also  Fortifications.) 
militia,  140,  141. 
{See  also  Militia.) 
/     ueck,  sale  of   town's  lands   on  the, 
55,  56,  57,  15S,  1S1,  183,  298, 
310. 
forestalling  provisions  on,  87, 

SS,  89. 
lease  of,  189,  203. 
incroachments  on,  to  prevent, 

203. 
firing    of    small  arms   on,  to 
prevent,  32fi. 
Regiment,  see  Troops. 
Bounties,  17,  IS,  26,  27,  140,  141. 

{See  also  Continental  Army.) 
Braintree,  94. 

Breadstuffs,  6,  10,  13,  37,  38,  45,  46,  90,  92, 
96,  101,  102,  140,  178,  231,  242, 
249,  251,  258,  266,  267,  297,  302, 
326,  327. 


342 


City  Document  No.  80. 


Breadstuffs,  surveyors  of  wheat,  52,  112,  113, 
ITS,  231,  241,  297. 
scarcity  of,  36,  39,  40. 
to   provide  for   the   families   of 
non-commissioned  officers  and 
soldiers    of    the     Continental 
army,  10. 
rye  bread,  90. 

for  the  poor,  29,  30,  36,  39,  242. 
iu  the  several  wards,  36,  37,  38. 
assize  of  bread,  56,  57. 
Bridge,  mill,  6,  103,  112,  17S. 
repairs,  103. 
draw,  103. 

repairs,  103. 
swing,  at  Oliver's  dock,  301. 
Building,  petition  to  erect,  69. 

of     suitable     school-house,      237, 

238. 
new  wooden,  325,  326. 
Burial  places  : 

sextons,  184. 

adjoining  the  Granary,  301. 

common,  302. 

expense  of  burials,  to  regulate,  331, 

332. 
tolling  of  bells  at  funerals,  regulating 
of,  332. 
Butchers,  76,  82. 

petition  of  the  several,  81. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
meat,  81. 

(See  also  Provisions.) 
By-laws,  60,  280,  302,  331. 

relative  to  sweeping  of  chimneys, 

288,  289. 
for  appointment  and  regulation  of 

the  several  market  places,  3U2. 
to  enforce,  302,  303,  3u4. 
(See  also  Laws.) 

Cadiz  salt,  92. 

(See  also  Salt.) 
Cambridge,  83,  125. 

university  at,  127,  313. 
Candles,  330. 
Card  makers,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Cargoes,  see  Ships,  vessels,  etc. 
Carpenters,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Carriages,  carts,  etc.,  103,  221,  302,  303,304. 
Cartridges,  78. 

(See  also-  Arms  and  Ammunition.) 
Carts,  see  Carriages,  carts,  etc. 
Carvers,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Case  of  Francis  Johonnot,  32,  33,  34,  35. 

petition  iu,  33,34. 
guilt    of,      not 
proven,  33. 
Capt.  Samuel  Pepper,  34,  35. 
Cattle  upon  the  hoof,  91. 

Common,  299. 
Caulkers,  79. 

f  Si  >'  also  Trades.) 
Certificates,  86,  96,  123,  124,  237,  249,  286. 

loan  office,  99. 
Charlostown  Ferry,  87,  88. 

(See  also  Ferries.) 
Charter  for  fisheries,  216. 
Chelsea,   re-annexation    to    Boston,  relative 

to,  324. 
Chimney  sweepers,  170. 

salaries  of,  288. 
to  appoint,  170. 
to  advertise  for,  288. 
sweeping  of,  280. 
report  on  chimneys,  287-89. 
inspection  of  chimneys,  289. 
Ohocolate,  38. 
'  interns,  92. 

distilling  of,  85. 
Clerks  of  the  market,  see  Market. 


Clothing,   30,102,  103,  104,  105,  164,181,211. 

(See  also  Continental  army.) 
Coffee,  38. 

Collection  for  Christopher  Monk,  2. 
Collectors  of  taxes,  see  Taxes. 
Commerce,  323. 

wealth  and  strength  of  a  nation 

dependent  upon  its,  215. 
naval  strength  of  a  nation  linked 

with  its,  215. 
illegal,  273. 
Commissary  General  of  Supplies,  39,  40,  64, 

68,    124, 
126,  133. 
time   of 
service 
to  limit, 
126. 
of  military  stores,  220. 
Commissions,  127,  217. 
Committees : 

on    providing    an    orator    for 

March  the  Fifth,  1. 
to  wait  on  orator,  1,  2,  47,  48, 
49, 106, 107, 108,  170,  224,  225, 
289-90,  291. 
on  correspondence,   4,   12,   32, 
35,  49,  50,  70,  71,  72,  108,  109, 
112,  116,  173,  177,  227,  228. 
to  audit  accounts,  7,  52,  53,  65, 

243. 
on  inspection  and  safety,  4, 12, 
35,  47,  49,  50,  70,  71,  72,  75, 
108,   109,  116,   173,   177,  227, 
228,  273,  275,  297. 
to  consider  a  tax  to  defray  the 
expenses  of  the  town,  S,  10, 
11,  201,  -i02. 
on  high  price  of  provisions,  8, 
9. 
remedy  for,  9,  10. 
for  relief  of  the  poor,  10,  205. 
payment  of  schoolmasters, 
10,  169,  221,  222. 
to  obtain  the  names  of  the  non- 
commissio  lied 
officers  and  sol- 
diers of  the  Con 
tinental    Army, 
11. 
names  of  commit- 
tee, 1  i. 
to  relieve  said  persons,  14,  68, 
102, 103,  104, 115,  124. 
purchase  fire-arms,  etc.,  11, 

12,  67,  68. 
prepare  a  draft  of  petition 
to  the  General  Court,  13, 
20,21. 
on  inoculation   for  small-pox, 

15. 

drafting    men   into   the  army, 

16,    17,  18,  19,  161,    162,  191, 

195,  196,   198,   204,   222,   235, 

236,237,238,241,243,  244. 

to    obtaiu     subscriptions     for 

bounties,  18,    27,  143,    224. 

wait  on  the  Board  of  War, 

32,  97. 
prepare  instructions  to   the 
representatives,     21,     64, 
138,  156. 
prepare  instructions  relative 
to  a  form  of  government, 
22,65,  66. 
prevent  return  of  renegades 
to  the  town,  27,  28. 
on  school-masters'  salaries,  30, 
31,  54,  56,  102,  123,147,  164, 
319. 
to  purchase  flour, 38,  39,  40,  41, 
43,  44,  56,  140. 
borrow    money,   38,   39,   40, 
41,  43,  44,  56,  201,  202. 


Index  to  Places  and  Subjects. 


343 


Committees  : 


Committees 


to  present   memorial   to   Hon. 
Horatio  Gates,  39,  40. 
inquire   into    persons  fore- 
stalling the  necessaries  of 
life,  40,  45,  46,  87. 
obtain  supplies  for  the  poor, 
54, 189, 190,  191. 
on  payments  made  by  collect- 
ors in   the  several  treasu- 
ries, 55,  68,  69. 
sale  of  town's  lands,  55,  56, 

57. 
expenditures  of  monies,  56. 
levying  of  taxes  more  equi- 
tably, 56. 
assize  of  bread,  56,  57,  60. 
case  of  Francis  Johonnot, 
34. 
to  ascertain  amount  of  flour  and 
other    necessities    in   the 
several  wards,  36,  37. 
report    measure    to   relieve 
the    inhabitants    in    their 
great    and   growing    diffi- 
culties, 37. 
collect     subscriptions      for 
money  to  buy  grain   and 
flour,  38,  41,  142. 
furnish     inhabitants      with 

vegetables,  58,  60. 
prevent     horses     going    at 
large  on  the  Common,  59. 
on  by-laws,  60. 

to     obtain     subscriptions      of 
money,   64,  75,   99,  104,  154, 
155,  212. 
relative  to  tax  premiums,  68. 
to  meet  with  the  convention  at 
Concord,  70,  71,  72,  73. 
names  of  committee,  70. 
proceedings  of,   to   carry    into 

effect,  73,  74,  76. 
to  decide     what    measures     to 
take  relative  to  prisoners  of 
war  going  at  large,  70. 
report  of,  69,  70,  71. 
on  grants,  71. 

to    procure    subscriptions    for 
loan  of  money  to  Congress, 
74,  75. 
obtain  subscriptions  for  for- 
tifying Boston  har- 
bor, 74,  75. 
names  of  committee, 
74,  75. 
affix    prices    on     European 
goods,  75,  76,  78,   79,   9S, 
100. 
consider  what  may  be  best 
to   do   for  security  of  the 
town  in   case  of  an  inva- 
sion from  the  enemy,  76. 
consider  the  introduction  of 
live  stock  into  the  town, 
76,  77. 
take   note    of    violation    of 
laws    concerning    sale    of 
European  goods,  79. 
committee  of  Twelve,  reports 

of,  144. 
on   enforcement    of  monopoly 

act,  81. 
committee  of  Thirteen,  82,  84, 

85,  90,  96,  97,  91). 
on  scarcity  of  fire-wood,  84. 
price  of  merchandize,  84,  89. 
on  fire-wood,  85,  86,  94. 
engrossing  of  wood,  meat,  etc., 

to  prevent,  86. 
to  prevent  persons  going  upon 
Charlestown   ferry  and   the 
Neck     to   purchase    provi- 
sions, 88,  87. 


names   of  twenty,  on  commit- 
tee, 8S,  89. 
on   price  of  merchandize   and 

country  produce,  88,  89,  96. 
to  supply  the  town  with  pro- 
visions, 89. 
wait  on  merchants,  traders 
and  distillers,  90,  91,  92, 
95. 
relative    to     cattle     upon     the 

hoof,  91. 
to  board  vessels  and  report  on 
cargoes,  93,  95. 
receive  and  store  salt,  95. 
procure     subscriptions     for 
the  magazine,  95. 
of    merchants,    appointed     to 
affix     prices     of     European 
goods,   etc.,    98,   100,  101. 
names  of,  98. 

to  obtain  supplies  for  the  pub- 
lic store,  100. 
on  repairs  to  bridges,  103. 

salaries    of   town   officials, 

106. 
abatement  of  taxes,  114. 
to     inquire   into    debits    and 

credits  of  the  town,  114. 
on  street  refuse,  115. 

workhouse,  115. 
to   promote    virtue   and    good 
order  in  the  town,  115. 
examine  collector's  books, 

117,  lis. 
improve  town  land  at  West 
Boston  for  raising  vege- 
tables, 118,  17S. 
for  protection  of  the  sea  coasts, 

119. 
to  establish    a  school    at    the 
South  End,  120,  123,  124. 
provide  a  place  for  the  town 

to  meet,  125. 
consider  the  habeas  corpus 
writ,  127. 
3d    article    in 
the    declara- 
tion of 
rights,  J  29. 
report  on,  129- 
130. 
draw  up  reasons  for  altera- 
tions in  constitution,  131, 
135. 
procure   recruits  and   sup- 
plies  for   the   a.rmy,  144, 

164,  210. 

on  assessors'  salaries,  148. 
to  examine  accounts  of  Gapt. 
Gustavus  Fellows,   158,   159, 
160. 
on  address  to  John  Hancock, 

158. 
to  inquire  into  town's  title  to 
land    at    or    near    North 
Battery,  136. 
classify  inhabitants   of  the 
several    wards,   161,   162, 
163,  164. 
procure  beef  for  the  Conti- 
nental   Army,    152,    153, 

165,  166,    167,    168,    169, 
170. 

present    address    to     Gov. 
Hancock,  159. 
on  outstanding  taxes,  164,  16E, 

166,  195. 
to    receive    monies   raised    by 

tax  for  beef,  168. 
on  Ways  and  Means,  176,  182, 
183.  185,  205. 
town's  proportion  of  fines, 
176,  177. 


344 


City  Document  No.  80. 


Committees . 

on    assessing  and      collecting 

taxes,  176,  179. 
to  prepare  abstract  of   valua- 
tion of  the  town,  180. 
assist     town     treasurer    in 
settling    accounts    and 
collecting  debts,  182, 202. 
clerk  to   said    committee, 
182. 
on  town's  land    on   the  Neck, 

183. 
to  lease  North  Battery,  187, 188. 
prevent  illicit  trade,  187,271, 
272. 
on    petition    of    collectors    of 

taxes,  197. 
to  act  on  list  of  jurors,  198. 
estimate    sum    necessary   to 
defray  expenses  of  current 
year,  199,  200. 
assist  the  treasurer,  202. 
prevent    encroachments    on 
the  Neck,  203. 
on  town  watch,  211. 

fishery,  212. 
to  wait  upon  the  Governor,  213, 

271. 
'     prepare   complimentary  ad- 
dress to  the  Marquis  de  la 
Fayette,  217-18. 
on     present     arrangement    of 
publick  schools,  and  what 
further  improvement  may 
be  made  therein,  220. 
to  consult  with  the  commissary 

of  military  stores,  220. 
on  repairs  to  streets,  221. 

petition    of    Paul   Farmer, 

231. 
building    of    new    school- 
house,  237. 
to  inquire  into  expenditures  of 
war,  249. 
examine       the       assessors' 

books,  256. 
act  upon  the  list  of  jurors, 

258. 
present  memorial  relative  to 
the      observance     of      the 
Lord's  day  to  the  general 
assembly,  285. 
consider  the  suitable  obser- 
vance  of   the  anniversary 
of  the  Declaration  of  Inde- 
isendeuce,  291,  295. 
on  enforcing  by-law  relative  to 

the  markets,  304. 

to  provide  an  orator  to  deliver 

en  oration  on  the  4th  of 

July,  305,  322,  323. 

consider    the  re-annexation 

of  Chelsea  to  Boston,  324. 

security    of     the    town    by 

night,  326,  327. 
collect    town's    lamps,  330, 
332. 
Common  burying  ground,  302. 

[St  <■  also  Burial  places.) 
street,  301,  302. 
(See  also  .Streets.) 
Concord,    70,  7:;,  74,  75,  76,78,  80,  82,  87,  88, 

S  101. 
Confederation  of  tin-  Thirteen  States,  216. 
Congress,  05,    217,  272,  314. 

to  obtain  subscription*  for  money 

to  loan,  74,  75. 
pamphlet  published  by,  95. 
delegates  to,  126,  137. ' 
commissioners  to,  217. 

■'),  270,  271. 

i.l.s,  :;,  22,  73,  97,  123,124,136,148, 
144,153,  15:.,  163,  171,  175,176, 
17:>,  183,  188,  203. 


Constables,  choice  of,  6,  53,  59,  116,  117,  123, 
184,  1S6,  188,  191, 192,  19S,  200, 
204,  227,  229,  232,  233,  241,  242, 
243. 
desire  to  be  exempt  from  serv- 
ing as,  5S,  185,  186,  187,  188, 
189,  191,  192,  2u3,  239,  241. 
disorderly  behavior  of   one  of 

the,  97. 
list  of  persons  who  will  serve 
as,  to  furnish,  188.    . 
(See  also  Watch.) 
Constitution  and  form  of  government,  new, 
21,  22,  23,  61,  63,  83,  125,  128, 
129,  131-35,  156,  157,  193,  196, 
244,  246,  282,  283,  284,  313,  314. 
provision   for   a  future    revisal 

of,  127. 
to  accept,  129. 

superior  advantages  of  a  repub- 
lican, 291. 
Continental  agents,  90. 

army,  8,  10,  14,  19,  77,  141,  153, 

154,    156,    194,   195,   206, 

207,   209,    217,    235,  236, 

259,  328. 

full     proportion     of,    to 

keep  in  the  field,  66. 
statistics    as    to  the,  11, 

19,  249. 
drafting  men  into,  16,  17, 
18,  19,  20,  145,  161,  163, 
198,    204,    222,   235,  236, 
237,  238,  243,  244,  249. 
enlistments  into,  17,  18. 
bounties,    17,    18,    26,  27, 
140,  141,    145,   147,   224, 
244,  249,  260. 
mileage   of  men,   27,   140, 

147,  249. 
clothing   for,    29,  30,  102, 
103,  104,    105,    181,   249, 
259. 
shoes   and    stockings,    30, 
140,    147,  164,    165,    210, 
249. 
blankets,  140,  147,164,  165. 
major-general     and     com- 
mander of  the,  memo- 
rial to,  39,  40. 
reply  of,  42,  43. 
supplies    to     families     of 
non-commissioned     offi- 
cers   and    soldiers     of, 
61,  64.  115,  124,  249,  260. 
tax      raised,     instead    of 

men  drafted,  140-41. 
recruits   and    supplies    to 
procure,    144,    145,    160, 
191. 
beef    for,     152,    153,    157, 
165,   166,    167,   169,   170, 
204,  209,  249,  253. 
grain  for,  249. 
horses  for,  249. 
navy,  19. 

service,  see  Continental  Army. 
stores,  petition     for    flour    and 

bread  corn  from,  49,  50. 
tax,  205,267,  268,  269. 
Convention  of  February  28,  1778. 
June  16,1780,152. 
form    of  government  sent   out 

by,  to  reject,  22. 
State,    to    call,   ace  State  Con- 
vention. 
me.  ling  of,  at  Concord,  70,  71, 
72,  73,  75,   70,  78,   80,  82,  96, 
99,  101. 
at    Cambridge,    delegates,  83, 
128. 
Concord,  87,  88. 
for  framing  new   constitution, 
125. 


Index  to  Places  and  Subjects. 


345 


Convention,  i-esolves  of  the,  125,  135. 

on  sweeping  of  chimneys,  280. 
Coopers,  79. 

{See  also  Trades.) 
Cordwainers,  Y9. 

{See  also  Trades.) 
Corn,  see  Breadstuff's. 

Correspondence,  committees  on,  4, 12,  32,  35, 
49,  50,  71, 
72,  108, 
109,  112, 
116,  173, 
177,  187, 
227,  228. 
names  of,  49,  50,  228. 

{See  also  Committees.) 
with  sister  states,  to  en- 
courage, 157,  306,  307. 
Cotton  wool,  92. 

Council,  the,  13,  34,  70,  72,  77,  84, 126. 
counsellors,  24. 
resolve  of,  32,  33. 

case  of  Francis   Johonnot,   32,   33, 
34,  35. 
County  of  Suffolk,  see  Suffolk, 
treasurer,  see  Treasurer, 
register,  see  Register. 
Court  of  general  sessions,  6,  294. 
inferior,  142. 

supreme  judicial,  207,  314. 
Cows,  see  Cattle. 

Credit,  public  and  private,  basis  of,  156. 
Cryer,  town,  see  Town. 
Cullers  of  staves,  5. 
Currency,  article  upon,  95. 
Curtis'  wharf,  310. 

Debit  and  credit  of  the  town,  7,  53,  114,  177, 

181,182. 
Debt,  public,  157,  201,  215. 
Declaration  of  Independence,  anniversary  of, 
to  be    suitably    observed, 
291    294. 
Eights,  127,  129,  130,  131,  132, 
313,  314. 
Deeds,  etc.,  220,  311,  317. 
Deer,  informer  of,  5,  51,  111,  175,  230,  296. 
Delegates,  131,  135. 

to  the  convention  at  Cambridge, 
83,  84,   125, 
126,  128. 
at  Concord,  87, 
88. 
choice  of,  83,  87,  88. 
names  of,  83,  88. 
Depositions,  271. 
Diseases,  infectious,  9, 10,  323. 

spread  of,  15. 

to  prevent, 
302. 
{See  also  Small-pox.) 
Distilleries  and  distillers,  90,  91. 
Distilling  of  cisterns,  85. 
{See  also  Cisterns.) 
Dock   square,  303,  330. 

fish  market  at,   to   open  98. 
repairs  on,  318. 
consideration    of,    deferred, 

98,  99. 
fish  stalls,  to  build  on,  100. 
encroachments  in,  294,  311. 
{See  also  Streets,  etc.) 
town,  46,  326. 

incumbrances  on,  305,  331. 
abutters  on,  311,  314,  316,   317, 
318,  321,  326,  327. 
{See  also  Town  Dock.) 
to  fill  up,  311. 
Dominion  provinces  of  Great  Britain,  33. 
Donations,  238,  263,  291. 
Drafting,  16,  17. 
Drafts  of  monies,  see  Monies. 

men,  see  Continental  Army. 
Drains,  etc.,  311. 


Drawbridge,  103. 

repairs  to,  103. 
{See  also  Bridge.) 

Elections,  matter  of  settling,  126. 
Enlistments,  17,  18, 19,  20,  243. 

bounties  for  men  enlisting,  17, 

18,  244. 
men    to  enlist  in   their    own 

towns,  17,  18. 
omissions  in  manner  of,  20. 
{See  also  Continental  Army.) 
European  goods,  75,  76,  78,  98,  100,  101,  215. 
Exclusion  Act,  32,  33,  34,  35,  306,  307,  314. 

{See  also  Act.) 
Executive  power,  126. 
Exhibitions,  228. 

{See  also  Amusements.) 
Exportation  of  gold  and  silver,  214. 

Faneuil  Hall,  1,  3,  14,  16,  18, 21,  24,  26, 27,  28, 
32,  36,  45,  47,  49,  56,  61,  67, 
69,  72,  82,  84,  86,  89,  97,  102, 
105,  106,  108,  125,  135,  150, 
152,  155,  156,  160,  165,  169, 
170,  172,  192,  194,  196,  200, 
204,  208,  211,  21S,  219,  224, 
226,  228,  241,  242,  244,  246, 
251,  259,  261,  265,  267,  270, 
275,  276,  277,  289,  292,  307, 
309,  319,  321,  323,  325,  328, 
333. 
market,  19,  65,  302. 

regulations  of,  19. 
stalls  in,  81. 
arms  lodged  in,  259. 
windows  of,  to  mend,  237. 
repairs  to,  237,  238. 
Farmers,  82. 
Farriers,  79. 

{See  also  Trades.) 
Fees  due  from  justices,  180. 
Fence  viewers,  5,  51,  111,  175,  229,  296. 
Ferries,  80. 

Winnisimet,  72. 
forestalling  provisions  on,  87. 
Charlestown,  87,  88. 
Fines,  see  Penalties  and  Fines. 
Firearms,  see  Arms  and  Ammunition. 

wards,  4, 12, 50, 109, 110, 173, 174, 228, 293. 
Fires,  to  consider  what  is  proper  to  be  done 
to  secure  the  town  from,  170. 
bells  to  ring  for,  184. 
at  Oliver's  dock,  325. 
Fish,  9,  215. 

stalls,  100. 

extravagant  price  of,  46. 
fishermen,  46. 
markets,  56,  57,  98,  99. 
price  of  haddock  and  halibut,  80. 
mongers,  79. 
Fisheries,  211,  214,  215,  314. 

importance  of,  214-217. 
charter,  216. 

circular  letter  relating  to  the,  217, 
218,  219. 
Flour  and  grain,  see  Breadstuffs. 
Foreign  Armies,  see  Armies. 
Foreign  Navies,  see  Navies. 
Forestalled,  severe  condemnation  of,  13,  45, 
46. 
law  against,  to  enact,  13,  96. 
forestalling  and  monopoly,  bill 
to  prevent,  38,  40,  41,  42,  46, 
44,47,87. 
certain  men  who  are,  44,  45,  46. 
Form  of  government  for  the  State  of  Massa- 
chusetts Bay,  old,  to  reject,  23. 

new,  to   institute,  23, 
24_,  66,  126. 
rights  of  representation,  23. 
equality  of  representation,  66. 
proposed  alterations  in,  131-35. 
new,  156. 


346 


City  Document  No.  80. 


Form  relative  to  choice  of  Governor,  etc., 
307. 
rep  re  senta- 
tives,  309. 
Fort  Hill,  barracks  to  erect  on,  69. 
Fortifications : 

brick  wall  of,  165. 
in  Boston  harbor,  74. 
near  the  Neck,  S7,  88,  310. 
North  Battery,   136,   138,   149, 
185,  187, 188. 
to  sell,  189. 
South  Battery,  153,  155. 
Fox  hill,  268,  269. 
France,  naval  power  of,  216. 

allies  from,  276-277,  278. 
Freedom  of  speech,  to  secure,  127. 
French    Corps  under   Count   Rochambeau, 

278,  279. 
Funerals,  tolling  of  bells  at,  to  regulate,  331, 
332. 

Gaol,  case  of  Francis  Johonnot  confined  in 

the,  32,  33. 
General   and    Commander-in-chief    of    the 
forces  in  the   United   States    of 
America,  welcome  to,  275,276-77, 
278. 
reply  of,  278,  279. 
Glass,  44,  45,  238. 
Glaziers,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Goal,  see  Gaol. 
Gold,  214. 
Goldsmiths,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Governor,  the,   126,  133,  150,  151,  152,  165, 
193,  194,  213,  244,  245,  271, 
307. 
address  to,  158. 
committee    to    present     ad- 
dress, 159. 
reply  of,  159. 
Lieutenant,  126,  150,  151, 152,  193, 
194,  244,  245,  307. 
Grain,  see  Breadstuffs. 

(See  also  Granary.) 
Granary,  the,  38,  41,  231,  297,  301,  302. 

grain  to  store  in,  for  the  town, 

38,  41. 
to  be  distributed,  42. 
keeper  of,  6,  52,  112,  231,  297. 
purchasers  of  grain,  6,  52,  112, 

140,  178,  231,  297. 
sale  of,  52,  231,  297. 
to  use,  as  a  public  magazine, 

96. 
stores  in,  to  remove,  97. 
burying  ground  adjoining,  301. 
Grants  and  allowances,  66,  67,  71. 

(See.  also  Salaries.) 
Gravel,  268,  269. 
Great  Britain,  216. 

monies  sent  to,  215. 

Habeas  corpus,  127. 

privileges  and   benefits  of, 

128. 
to  suspend  only  in  time  of 

war,  e<c.,128. 
writs  of,  133. 
Hair  dressers,  79. 

'  See  a i 'so  Trades.) 
rfartford,  101. 
Hat  makers,  see  Hatters. 
Hatters,  79,  87,97. 

( 8ee  also  Trades.) 
Hay,  38,  802. 

market  for,  301,  303,  329. 
Haywards,  •"»,  52,  111,  175,  230,  296. 
Hemp,  surveyors  of,  5,  51, 110, 174,  229,  295. 
Hull--  and  tallow,  81. 
Highways,  nee  Streets,  highways,  etc. 
Hingham,  94. 


Hogreeves,  5,  7,  12,  52,  111,  175,  230,  239,  296, 

300,  306. 
Horses,  302. 

to  prevent,  going  at   large   on   the 

Common,  59,  60,  61.  . 
for  the  use  of  the  army,  249. 
Hospitals,  15. 

at  West  Boston,   15. 
State,  258,  328. 
boat,  288. 
-    innoculating,  at  Apple  Island,323. 
House  of  Representatives,  7,  8,  13,  126. 
Housewrights,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Hucksters,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 

Importations,  214. 

West  India,  215. 
Independence  Day,  celebration  of  the  an- 
niversary of,  291,  294, 
295,  305,  322. 
choice    of    orator   for, 
322. 
Indian  meal,  see  Breadstuffs,  10. 
Inferior  Court,  see  Court. 
Informer  of  Deer,  see  Deer. 
Inhabitants,  1,  S,  9,  11,  12,  14,  16,  18,  22,  24, 
26,  27,  28,  35,  36,  39,  41,   45, 
4S,  49,  50,  53,  55,  56,  58,   59, 
60,  61,  62,  65,  69,  72,  74,  75,  81, 
82,  83,  84,  85,  86,  87,  89,  90, 
92,  93,  94,  95,  97,  99,  100,  102, 
105,   106,    108,   125,    127,  130, 
133,   135,   136,   141,    142,   145, 
150,   152,   153,   154,    155,  156, 
158,   159,  160,   163,   165,   168, 
169,   170,   172,   173,     179,  181, 
182,   183,   184,    185,    186,   187, 
191,   192,   194,    196,    197,    198, 
199,   200,    204,    207,    208,   209, 
211,   213,   218,   224,    225,   226, 
227,  232,  235,   237,    238,   241, 
242,   244,  246,   247,    251,   255, 
257,   259,   260,   261,    262,   264, 
265,  266,   267,   268,    269,  270, 
271,  274,   275,   276,    277,   282, 
288,   289,   291,   292,    294,  298, 
299,   301,   302,   306,    307,  309, 
310,   318,   319,   321,    323,   325, 
328,  329,  333,  334. 
depletion  of  town's,  19. 
petitions  of,  76. 

to  report  names  of    traitors  to 
the  Committee  of  Safety,  71. 
must  equip  themselves  and  at- 
tend the  military  musters,  78. 
informed  of  report  of  commit- 
tee on  the  act  relative  to  the 
Lord's  Day,  279. 
Innoculation,  9,  15,  323,  324. 

general,  to  encourage,  15. 
date  of  termination,  16. 
innoculating  hospital  at  Apple 
Island,  323,  324. 
Inspection  and  safety,  4,  12,  35,  47,  49,  50, 
70,  71,  75,  108,  109, 
173,   177,    187,   227, 
228,   273,    275,    297, 
306. 
(See also  Committee.) 
duties  of,  306,  307. 
Inspectors  of  the  Market,  see  Market. 
Interest,  see  Notes,  negotiable. 
Islands  : 

West  Indies,  78,  323. 
Turks',  92. 
Apple,  323,  324. 

Judiciary  power,  126. 
Jurors,  26,  317. 

list  of,  26,  198,  258,  317. 

jury  book,  142. 

grand,  235. 


Index  to  Places  and  Subjects. 


347 


Justices,  49,  10S,  123,  124,  181,  188,  195. 
fees  due  from,  180. 

Labor,  price  of,  13,  79-80. 
Lamb,  81. 

(See  also  Provisions.) 
Lamps,  town,  to  be  again  lit  up,  327,  330. 
to  collect,  330,  332,  333. 
lamplighters,  330,  333. 
lamp  tax,  333. 

expense  of  lighting,  to  defray,  334. 
Lands,  owners : 

Cupt.  Job  Prince,  60. 

Mr.    Hezekiah    Blanchard, 

60. 
heirs  of  James  Allen,  60. 

John  and  Thomas 
Leaverett,  60. 
Andrew  Symmes,  6U. 
Mr.  Clough,  60. 

Harris,  60. 
Dr.  Sprague,  60. 
Mr.  Edward  Carues,  60. 
Sumner,  60. 
William  Dennie,  164. 
Phillips  etals.,  327, 329. 
town's,  55,  114,  115,  118,187. 

on  Oliver's  dock,  327,  329. 
sale  of,  55,  56,  57,  203,  311. 
on  the  Neck,  55,  56,  57,  158, 
181,183,189,203,  298,  300, 
304,  310. 
title  to,  56,  311,  314,  327. 
trespassers  on  Beacon  Hill, 

57. 
waste,  60. 
petition    to    erect  barracks 

on,  69. 
portion  of  ground   on  Fort 

Hill,  69. 
at  New  Boston,  96. 
title    to     laud    at    or    near 

North  Battery,  136,  149. 
raising  of  vegetables  on,  60, 

114,  115,  118,  178,  180. 
abutting  on  the   Dock,  304, 
311,  314,  316,  317,  318,  326, 
327. 
Language,  improper,  92. 
Latin,  teacher  of,  in  the  schools,  55. 

(See  also  Schools.) 
Laws,  92,  115, 172,  196,  246,  275,  360,  309. 

breach  of,  32,  33,  34,  35,  47,  77,  79,  80, 

84,  89,  90,  91,97,  98. 
enactment   of,  relative   to   renegades, 
called  the  Exclusion  Act,  32,  34,  35, 
306,  307. 
relative  to  purchase  of  meat,  SI. 
to  uphold.  35,  66,  115,  325. 
to  be  read   at  town  meeting,  49,  246, 

292,  309. 
relative  to  sweeping  of  chimneys,  288, 

289. 
trespasses  on  Beacon  Hill,  57. 
/  building  with  wood,  325,  326. 
relative  to  certain  by-laws,  60. 

strangers,  71. 
penal,  313. 

confirmations  of,  127. 
habeas  corpus,  127. 
repeal  of  certain,  156. 
(See  also  By-laws.) 
Lead,  twenty  hundred  weight  of,  328. 
Leases,  60,  72,  138,  181,  183,   185,   187,   189, 

203. 
Leather,  sealers  of,  5,  51,  111,  175,  229,  296. 

dressers,  76. 
Legislative  power,  126. 
Legislature,  the,  217. 

(See  also  Assembly.) 
Letters  : 

from  Mr.  Samuel  Brick,  109. 

committee  town  of  Stoughton  to 
the  selectmen  of  Boston,  177. 


Letters  : 

from   Mr.  Justice  Gardner,   189,  195. 
town  of   Marblehead,   211,  212, 
214. 
circular,  to  maritime  towns,  217, 218-19. 
from  John  Bradford,  Esq.,  217,  222. 
complimentary    address   to   the  Mar- 
quis de  la  Fayette,  217-18. 
reply,  218. 
Mr.    Hunt,     master     of     the     South 

Grammar  school,  220. 
Stephen  Higginson,  Esq.,  254. 
*     from  lion.  James  Lovell,  256. 
circular  letters,  265,  274,  275. 
from  Capt.  Collis,  270. 
Mr.  Prentice,  270. 
Hon.  Samuel     Adams     to    the 

Selectmen  of  Boston,  292. 
Nathan  Frazier,  Esq.,  293. 
Capt.  Gustavus  Fellows,  294. 
Hon.  Wiliam  Philips,  310. 
Libels,  85. 
Literature,  encouragement  of,  127,  157. 

and  science,  157,  313. 
Live  stock,  to  introduce  into  the  town,  76. 
(See  also  Cattle.) 
farmers   recommended   to    pur- 
chase, 82. 
Loan  office,  99. 
Lord's  Day,  298. 

observance  of  the,  7,  313. 

an  act  for  the  more 
effectual,  277,279. 
memorial  to   the    General    As- 
sembly relative  to,  280-85. 
Lotteries,  203. 
Lumber,  82,  214. 

Magazine,  public,  to  be  opened,  94,  95,  96. 
granary  to  use  as  a,  96. 
supplies  for  the,  100,  102. 
to  furnish  with  grain,  101. 
salt  and  other  merchandize 

turned  into  the,  101. 
articles  sold  from,  101, 102. 
to  keep  open,  102. 
Major  General  and  Commander  of  the  army 
of  the  United  States  in  the  Eastern 
Department,  memorial  to,  39,  40,  42. 
reply  from,  42,  43. 
Manufactures,  272. 

prices  of,  79. 
Marblehead,  44,  211,  212,  214. 
^Maritime  towns,  circular  letter  to,  217,  218, 
219. 
(See  also  Letters.) 
Market,  19,  65,  80. 

clerks  of  the,  9,  54,  71,  113,  177,  228, 

229,  262,  2'.)9. 
forestalling  the,  10,  13,  45,  46,  S7,  88. 
regulations  of  the,  19. 
north  doors  and  windows  of,  to  be 

put  up,  43. 
inspectors  of,  46,  301,  302,  303,  304. 
fish,  56,  57,  9S,  99,  100. 
vegetables  sold  in,  81,  301. 
stalls  in,  81. 
disorders  of,  301. 
wood,  301. 
hay,  301,  303,  329. 
regulating,  311. 
place,  see  Dock  square, 
square,  see  Dock  square. 
Masons,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.1) 
Massacre  on  March  5, 1770,  to  commemorate, 
3,  2,  47,  48,  49, 
106, 107, 10S,  170, 
171,224,225,226, 
289-90?  305. 
change  in  institu- 
tion of  the  anni- 
versary of,  3u4, 
305. 


348 


City  Document  No.   80. 


Massachusetts  Bay,  the  State  of,  13,  19,  26, 
&2,   125,    137,   151, 
158,  159,  196,  2S0. 
Constitution      and 
form     of    govern- 
ment, 22. 
old,  to  reject,  22,  23. 
new,  to  institute,  23, 
24. 
towns  and  plantations  of, 

22,  26. 
first  governor,  158-159. 
Meat,    unmerchantable,    brought    into    the 
town,  77. 
law  as  to  purchasing,  81. 
engrossing  of,  to  prevent,  86. 
Mechanics,  215. 
Medicines,  9. 
Meeting-houses : 

old  brick,  1,  2,  21,  48,  106, 
107,    126,    170,     171,     225, 
290. 
bells  of  the  several,  184. 
sextons,  184. 
Dr.  Cooper's,  322. 
Memorials  or  petitions : 

to  the  General  Court,  9,  10, 
13,  19,  20,  21,  277,  279,  2S0- 
85. 
Hon.  Horatio  Gates,  39,  40. 
reply  of, 
42, 43. 
to  committees  appointed  to 
receive  subscriptions  and 
purchase  flour  and  grain, 
41. 
reason  for  delay  in  printing 
town's  memorial  to  Genl. 
Gates  and  his  reply,  43. 
for  assistance   to  the  poor, 

212. 
in   behalf   of   the   estate   of 

Edw.  Hoi  lyday,  243-44. 
Mr.  Samuel  Buggies,  263. 
Men-of-war,  see  Ships,  vessels,  etc. 
Merchandize,   price  of,   84,  8S,  S9,   99,   100, 
215. 
possible  exportation  of,  89. 
turned  into  the  public  store, 
101. 
Merchants,  82,  89,  92,  94,  99,  215. 

must  comply  with  the  law,  90. 
account  of  all  sales,  etc.,  to  ren- 
der, 90. 
to  wait  on,  90,  91,  95. 
Military  musters,  78. 

wards,  179,  182,  210. 
stores,  220. 
Militia,  11,  12,  77,  78,  140,  141,  145,  258,  259, 
27S  328. 
drafts  from  the,  19. 
arms  for,  to  purchase,  67,  68. 
orders  to  captains  of  companies  in, 
244. 
(See  also  Troops.) 
Mill  I. ridge,  the,  6,  52,  112,  17S,  231. 
repairs  to,  103. 
(dee also  Bridge.) 
owners,  103. 
Mills: 

new,  6,  52,  112,  178,  231. 
north,  203. 
Milton,  75. 

Ministers  of  the  Gospel  to  remind  their  con- 
gregations of    important    town 
meeting,  127. 
Copy  of  vote  to  send  to  all,  127. 
of  i  he  needs  of  the  poor,  205. 
Molasses,  38,  79,  92. 

Monies,  07,  74, 137,  142,  140,149,154,158,  100, 
Kit,  181,  201,2112,  203,  200,  212,  215, 
22 1 ,  231 ,  24*,  2.'.  1 ,  252,  253,  254,  200, 
263, 207,  268,  279,  286,  289,208,  299, 
300,  310,  318,  333. 


Monies,  to  raise,  10,  11,  14,  18,  26,  27,  29,  30, 
38,  41,  57,  61,  64,  73,  94,  98,  105, 
124,  140, 145,  146,  153, 167, 168, 170, 
201,  213,  223,  224,  238,  249,  250,  318, 
319,  333,  334. 
for  fire  arms,  12. 

payment  of  bounties,  17,  18. 
of  town  treasurer,  26,  116,  117. 
for  soldiers'  families,  260. 
to  raise  for  the  poor,  29,  30,  98,  120, 
189,  190,  191,  242.  ' 
provide  flour  and    grain,  38,  41, 
44. 
due  Capt.  Amasa  Davis  from   the 

town,  231. 
notes  to  issue,  for  loans  of,  18,  27, 
38,  57,  61,  64,  98,  120,  140-41,  142, 
146,   150,   154,    165,    167,  168,  201, 
242. 
receipts  for,  41. 

to  draw  on  town  treasurer  for,  41, 
150,  239,  240. 
deposit  with  town  treasurer,  42, 
116,  117,  140. 
expenditures  of,  granted  by  town, 

56. 
old,  197. 

received  and   paid   into   the  treas- 
urer's, 116,  117,  118,  119. 
interest  on,  to  overseers  of  the  poor, 

176,  177,  201. 
paper,    to     exchange     for     silver, 

177. 
premium  on,  181. 
advanced  by  Nathan  Frazier,  199. 
be  repaid,  180. 
Monopoly  Act,  81. 
Mutton,  81,  102. 

(See  also  Provisions.) 


Naval  strength  of  a  nation  linked  with  its 

commercial  status,  215. 
Navies,  foreign,  214. 
Neassity  [Necessity?]  (brigantine),  92. 

(See  also  Ships,  vessels,  etc.) 
Neck,  the,  see  Boston  Neck. 
Negroes  and  mulattoes,  19,  258. 
New  Boston,  see  West  Boston. 
England  rum,  91. 

( See  also  Rum.) 
Colonies,  101. 
Mills,  see  Mills. 
Newspapers,  publishing  in  the,  24,71,  80,  81, 
97,  99,  144,  145,  147,  153,  250, 
252,   275,   279,  294,  307,  311, 
322. 
Willis',  85. 

address  to  the  Marquis  Fay- 
ette and  his  re- 
ply, published 
in  the  several, 
218. 
Baron  Viomenil, 
and  his  reply 
thereto,  p  u  b- 
lished  in  the 
several,  279. 
New  York,  38. 

North  Battery,  136,  138,  149,  185,  188,  220. 
to  sell,  189,  220. 
(See  also  Battery.) 
(See  also  Fortifications.) 
End,  55,  210. 
Mills,  203. 

(See  also  Mills.) 
Grammar  School,  197,  223,   224,  233, 
234. 

(See  also  Schools.) 
square,  301,  302. 

( See  also  Streets.) 
writing  school,  25,  22:;,  234. 

master  of,  25,  223,  234. 
{See  also  Schools.) 


Index  to  Places  and  Subjects. 


349 


Notes,  interest,  etc.,  IS,  27,  38,  57,  61,  64,  98, 
104,  114,  120,  140-41,  154,  166,  167, 
168,  224,  240,  242,  248,  249,  250,  252, 
264. 
for,  given  by  town  treasurer,  168, 
199^  250,  252. 

Oath  of  Fidelity,  34,  292. 
Oaths  and  subscriptions,  125,  172,  226,  243. 
Offices,  incompatability  and  exclusion  from, 
127. 
qualifications  for,  127. 
Oil,  215. 

Old  Brick  Meeting-house,  1,  2,  21,  48,   106, 
107,  126,  170,  171,  225,  290. 
(See  also  Meeting-houses.) 
North  square,  see  North  square. 
Oliver's  dock,  301,  303,  325,  327,  329. 

( See  also  Wharves.) 

Oration  to  be  delivered  in  commemoration 

of  the  Boston  massacre,  March  5, 

1770,  1,  2,  47,  48,  49,  106,  107,  170, 

171,  172,  224,  225,  226,  289-90. 

copy  of,  to  be  furnished  the  Press, 

48,  107,  225. 
to    be   delivered   at  the   Old  Brick 

Meeting-house,  170,  171,  290. 
observance  of  an,  to  be  superseded 
by  the  suitable  observance  of  the 
anniversary  of  the  Declaration  of 
Independence,  291,  294,  295,  305. 
to  be  delivered  on  each  succeeding 
anniversarv  of  the  4th  of  July,  305, 
322. 

choice  of  orator,  322. 
Overseers  of  the  Poor  see  Poor. 

Painters,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Pamphlets,  95. 
Pavements,  see  Streets. 

Penalties  or  Fines,  3,  17,  59,  60,  118,165,  169, 
174,  180,  181,  189,  195,  284,  288,  289,  302, 
303. 
Petition  in  case  of  Francis  Johonnot,  33. 
of  number  of  inhabitants,  76,  320. 
the  several  butchers,  81. 
Gustavus  Fellows,  158,  159,  160. 
Capt.  Bradford,  181,  183. 
Mr.  Krazier,  192. 
collectors  of  taxes,  197, 198, 199. 
Jonas  Welch,  203. 
Robert  Patterson,  226. 
Paul  Farmer,  231,  239. 
Amasa  Davis,  231,  239,  240. 
the  town  of  Chelsea,  324. 
Pewterers,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Philadelphia,  177. 

congress  in  session  at,  137. 
Physicians,  9, 15,  16,  323. 

names  of,  324. 
Pickled  meat  or  wet  provisions,  sale  of ,  in 

market,  prohibited,  320. 
Pitch,  79. 

Poor,  overseers  of  the,  3,  29,  54,  57,  68,  98, 
110,  119,  120,  149, 
173,  176,  189,  190, 
191,  201,  205,  239, 
242,  251,  258,  300, 
375. 
choice  of,  3,  50,  110, 

227,  292. 
accounts  of,to  audit, 
7,    53,   114,    177,     ! 
230,231,  300. 
drafts  of,   201,  202,    . 
213,  230,  242,  250, 
251,   315,   318. 
medicines,  9. 
physicians,  19. 

supplies  for,  29,  30,  43,  54,  55,  57,  98, 
149,  1S9,  191,  205,  212,  242,  249,  258. 
Pork,  10. 


Port  Bill,  the,  243. 

(See  also  Bills.) 
Post  and  irons,  330,  333. 
Powder,  see  Arms  and  Ammunition. 
Premiums,  see  Taxes. 
Press,  liberty  of  the,  128. 
Price  of  labor,  79,  80. 
vegetables,  81. 
meichandise,  84,  96. 
wood,  94. 
breadstuffs,  96. 
country  produce,  96. 
European  goods,  etc.,  98,  99,  100. 
Printers,  79,  275. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Printing,  notifications,  62,  274,  275. 

names  of  persons  inimical  to  the 
cause  of  America,  71. 
of    persons  violating  laws 
relative  to   sale   of    pro- 
visions, 80. 
prices  of  provisions,  81. 
votes  of    town    relative   to    sale 

of  wood,  96. 
names  of  persons  violating  regula- 
tions of  the  town,  97. 
oration    commemorative     of    the 
massacre  of  March  5,  1770,  48, 
107. 
of  blanks  for  town  treasurer,  147. 
Prisoners  of  war  at  large,  70,  71,  72,  75. 

escape  of,  157. 
Privateers,  see  Ships,  vessels,  etc. 
Produce,  country,  88. 
Provisions,  302. 

high  price  of,  8,  9,  13,  25,  31,  58, 
71,  102,  211,  215. 
reports     concern- 
ing, 9, 13. 
for    families    of     non-commis- 
sioned  officers   and    soldiers, 
10,  124. 
for  the  poor,  29,  30. 
additional  allowance  to  school- 
masters because  of  high  price 
of,  31. 
wet,  320. 

to  sell  in  small  quantities,  38. 
committee    appointed    to    pur- 
chase, 41,  42,  88,  89. 
vegetables  to  furnish  the  inhab- 
itants, 58,  60,  81,  114,  115,  118, 
119,  120. 
at  extortionate  rates,  sale  of,  to 

prevent,  80,  81. 
violation  of  laws  relative  to  sale 

of,  to  punish,  80,  87. 
price  of,  81. 
butchers'  meat,  81. 
forestalling  of,  87. 
beef,  10,   81,   102,  152,  153,   157, 
165,  166,  167,  204,  205,  206,  207, 
208,  209,  242,  249,  253. 

Queen  street,  25,  198,  223,  234,  321. 
(See  also  Streets,  etc.) 

Rate  bills,  see  Taxes. 

Reading,  97. 

Real  estate,  condition  of  the  town's,  155. 

(See  also  Taxes.) 
Receipts  for  monies,  41,  67, 121,  123,  168,  256, 
334. 
(See  also  Monies.) 
Records,  town,  26,  32,  60,  98,  116,  117,  144. 

of  committees    appointed  to   pur- 
chase grain  and  other  necessities 
for  the  town,  42. 
county,  116,  117. 
state,  116,  117. 
Recruits  for  the  army,  217. 

to  procure,  144, 145. 
Refuse  on  the  streets,  115,  120. 
(See  also  Streets.  1 


550 


City  Document  No.  80. 


Regiments,  see  Troops. 
Register,  county,  174,  175. 
Renegades,  27,  28,  32,  33,  34,  35,  85. 
return  of,  32. 
exclusion  act,  32,  306,  307. 

breach  of,  32,  33, 
34,  35. 
Rents,  leases,  etc.,  26,  68,  203. 
Reports  of  committees,  1,  2,  9,  10,  11,  12,  13, 
17,  18,  19,  28,  31, 
32,  35,  38,  41,  44, 
45,  46,  53,  55,  57, 
60,  63,  65,  69,  70, 
71,  72,  73,  74,  75, 
76,  77,  78,  80,  85, 
87,  89,  91,  92,  98, 
99,  100,  103,  104, 
106,  107,  116,  117, 
118,  119,  123,  130- 
35,  137,  140,  144, 
147,  148,  159,  160, 
161,  163,  165,  169, 
179,  180,  182,  183, 
188,  189,  190,  195, 
199,  200,  201,  202, 
203,  204,  206,  210, 
211,  213,  217,  221, 
222,  223,  224,  235, 
237-38,  241,  243, 
244,  252,  254,  255, 
256,  259,  260,  263, 
265,  269,  270,  276, 
280,  286,  287,  288, 
289,  290,  301-304, 
305,  307,  310,  312, 
315,  316,  317,  326, 
327,  328,  329,  330, 
331,  334. 
of  town  treasurer, 
26. 
selectmen,  15. 
Representation,  rights  of,  23. 

equality  of,  66. 
(See  also  Form  of  Government,  etc.) 
Representatives,  197,  198,  214,  219,  248,  254, 
273. 
house  of,  7,  8,  13,  126,  280, 
319. 
speaker    of    the, 
319. 
chamber,  161,  163,  212,  227, 

232,253,  269. 
choice  of,  18,  24,  61,  62,  63, 

135,  137, 138, 152,196,  200, 
246,247,254,256,  257,  258, 
309,  312,  319. 

names  of,  and    number  of 
votes    received,    18,    62, 

136,  137,  196,  247. 
instructions  to,  19,   20,   21, 

22,  23,  28,  64,  65,  66,  67, 
131-35,  138,  153,  155,  156, 
157,  214-17,  259,  260,  310, 
312-15. 
memorial  to,  19,  20. 
instructed   as  to  return  of 
renegades    to  the    town, 
28. 
Resolutions  framed  against  illicit  trade  with 

Great  Britain,  273-274,  275. 
Rhode  Island,  26,27. 
Rice,  10,  38. 
Ropewalkers,  79. 

(See  aUo  Trades.) 
Roxbury,  45,  56,  57,  77,  166. 

selectmen  of,  77. 
Rum,  44,  89,  92,  L01. 

New  England,  91. 
Rye  meal,  see  Breadstuffs. 
bread,  see  Breadstuffs. 

Safety,  committee  of,  4,  12,  35,  47,  49,  70,  71, 
72,  ':,,  108,  109,  112,  116,  227.22s,  806, 

307. 


Safety,  committee  of,  names  of,  49,  50,  116, 
228. 
duties  of,  306,  307. 
(See  also  Committees.) 
Salaries  or  Allowances,  8,  10,  21,  25,  32,  86, 
197-98,    220,    233, 
300. 
school- masters',   53, 
54,  69,  71,  102,104, 
123,  137,  146,  147, 
149,  164,  169,  17S, 
208,  209,  211,  220, 
221,  222,  233,  286- 
87,  316,  318,  319, 
320. 
Mr.  John  Vinal,  223, 
224,  234,  2S6,  287, 
321. 
Mr.  William   Cros- 
well,  198,223, 
234. 
Samuel  Hunt, 
25,  31,  35, 
71,       103, 
197,     223, 
233,     286, 
320. 
assistant  of, 
104, 147. 
Samuel    Hol- 
brook,  25,  31, 

57,  71,  103. 
Aaron    Smith, 

197. 

James  Tileston, 
25,  31,  71,  103, 
223,234,320. 

John     Tileston, 

58,  197,     234, 
286,  321. 

James  Bently, 
31. 

James  Carter, 
25,  31,  58,  71, 
103,    198,    223, 

233,  286,  320. 
William  Bently, 

25,  35,  71,  103. 
David     Jeffries, 

25,  210. 
Nathan      Davis, 

223,    224,    233, 

234,  286,    287, 
320,  321. 

Paul  Farmer, 
239. 
assessors,   31,  61,  68, 
72,    118,    148,     149, 
221,  325. 
town     treasurer,   71, 
119,   149,    235,   318, 
319,  321,  331. 
measurers  of    wood, 

96. 
to  officers,  146. 
Samuel   Fayson    (?), 

286,  321. 
town  clerk,    149, 150, 

301,  318. 
collectors     of    taxes, 

240,  297,  298. 
watchmen     of    the 

town,  269,  318. 
Mr.    Isaac     Warren, 
286. 
Salem,  44,  333. 
Sales,  etc.,  account  of  all,  92, 

to  be  furnished,  90. 
authorized,  189. 
of  land,  311, 
Salt,  91,92,93,  101. 
Cadiz,  92. 
committee  to  receive  and  store,  95. 


Index  to  Places  and  Subjects. 


351 


Scavengers,  6,  52, 113,  175,  230,  296-97,   301, 
302,  305,  308. 
instructions  to  the,  302. 
Schools  : 

North  Grammar,  197,  223,  224,  233, 

286,287,  321),  321. 
South  Grammar,  25,  35,  103,  104, 

138,  147,  ]97,  220,  233,  286,  320. 
Xorth  Latin,  55. 

master    for,   to     ap- 
point, 55. 
writing : 

north,  25,  197,  198,    223, 

224,    286,    320, 

321. 

master  of,  25,  147. 

in  Queen   street,  25,  198, 

223,286,320. 

master  of,  25. 

Latin  taught  in,  55. 

visitation  of,  300. 

masters'  salaries,  8,  10,  21,  25,  30, 

31,  32,  35,  54,  55,  69,  71, 

102,   103,  137,  146,  147, 

149,  164,   169,  178,  197, 

198,  208,  209,  211,  212, 

213,  221,  222,  223,   251, 

286,  287,  320,  321. 
petitions  of,  57. 

just  complaints  of,  58. 
the    common,     223,    224, 

287,  321,  329. 
present    arrangement    of     public 

schools,  220,  234,  235. 
south,  237. 
ushers,  25,  35,  69,  71. 

salaries   of,    103,  104,  147, 
198,  223,  234,  286. 
hell  for  a  school,  263. 
school-house,    115,   120,   123,    124, 
138,  164,  178,  179,   237,  23S,  251, 
318,  320. 
visitors  to,  233. 
Sea  coasts,  119,  120. 

neglected,  157. 
Sealers  of  Leather,  see  Leather. 
Securities,  242,  327. 

Selectmen,  15,  20,  24,  30,  38,  43,  49,  56,57,  63, 

68,  69,  72,  81,  82,  84,  86,  93,  96, 

97,  99,  120,   135,   137,   138,    140, 

148,  149,  152,  153,  157,  165,  176, 

177,  181,  188,  189,  193,  196,  198, 

200,  201,  203,  209,  210,  211,  213, 

221,  222,  223,  225,  226,  227,237, 

239,  240,  243,  246,  247,  251,  253, 

254,  256,  257,  258,  259,  260,  263, 

280,  286,  289,  290,  294,  298,  299, 

300,  310,  311,  312,  322,  325,  326, 

327,  328,  330,  334. 

number  of,  to  augment,  112. 

choice  of,  3,  21,  49,  108, 172,  292. 

drafts  of  the,  177,  201,  231,  250, 

251,  315,  318,  331. 
to  lay  out  certain  lands  into  lots 

of  sixty  feet  each,  311. 
of  Roxbury,  77. 
Selectmen's  chamber,  144,  163,  266. 
Senate,  the,  280. 
Senators,  election  of,  129, 131,  150,  151,  152, 

193,  194,  200,  244,  245,  307,  320. 
Sextons,  184, 

{See  also  Burial  places.) 
Sheep,  91. 

Ships,  vessels,  etc.,  93,  95,  96,  213,  215,  264, 
274. 
cargoes,  93,  95,  213. 
men-of-war,  20. 
privateers,  20,  216,  274. 
coasters,  38,  84. 
masters  of,  77. 
building,  215. 
carpenters,  79,  215. 
riggers,  79,  215. 
joiners,  79,  215. 


Ships,  block  makers,  79,  215. 
boat-builders,  79,  215. 
sail-makers,  79,  215. 
Neassiby  {Necessity  ? )  92. 
owners  of,  96. 
hospital  boat,  258. 
Shoes,  30,  140,  164,  165,  279,  280,  286. 

{See  also  Continental  Army  ) 
Shops  or  stalls  in  various  parts  of  the  town, 
for      supplying     inhabitants      with 
butchers'   moat,  81. 
shop-keepers,  90,  92,  99. 
Silver,  214. 

Slaughter  houses,  81,  90. 
Small-pox,  9,  10,  14,  15,  323. 
spread  of,  15. 

further,  15. 
innoculation  for,  9, 15, 16. 

(*ee  also  Diseases,  infectious.) 
Soap-boilers,  76. 

{See  also  Trades.) 
Soldiers,  see  Troops. 
South  Battery,  153,  155. 

{See  also  Battery.) 
End,  55,  75,  120,  210. 

school  at,  120,  123,  124,  138,  164, 
178,  179,  238. 
South  grammar  school,  25,  35,  103,   104,  223. 
master  of,  25,  223. 
usher    of,    35,   103, 

104. 
{See  also  Schools.) 
Southern    States,    embargo    on    flour    and 

bread  corn  in  the,  39. 
Speech,  freedom  of,  to  secure,  127,  132. 

liberty  of,  and  of  the  Press,  128, 
132. 
abuse  of, 
132. 
of    Governor  Livingstone,  relative 
to  return  of  renegades,  28. 
State  artillery  service,  77. 
{See  also  Troops.) 
Convention,  81. 

to  call.  63,  66. 
House,  86,  152,  196,  246,  309,  330. 
hospital,  see  Hospital. 
Secretary  of,  151. 
street,  303. 

{See  also  Streets.) 
tax,  8,  250. 

{See  also  Taxes.) 
treasury,  8. 
Statistics  as  to  non-commissioned   officers 
and  soldiers  of  the  Continental  Army,  11. 
Staves,  see  Wood. 
Stockings,  30,  140,  164,  165. 

{See  also  Continental  Army.) 
Stores,  military,  220. 
Stoughton,  17. 
Streets,  highways  and  byways  : 

surveyors  of  highways,  6,  112,  178, 

231. 
to  patrol,  274. 
refuse  on,  115, 120. 

to  rake  up  and  collect,  120. 
leading  to  the  North  Mills,  203. 
repairing  of,  221,  251,  268,  318. 
tax  raised  for,  235. 
paving  of,  221. 
encroachments  on,  294,  302,  303,304, 

311,331. 
Queen,     Dock     square,      Common, 
North  square,  "Water,  State. 
Subscriptions,  9,  18,  26,  27,  38,  41,  42,  43,  74, 
75,   94,    98,   99,    101,  102,   104,  105,  125, 
140,    141,    142,    143,    144,   145,   154,   157, 
190,  191. 
Suffolk,  County  of,  150,  151,  193,  244,  245, 

307,  30S. 
Sugar,  38,  44,  79,  89,  90,  101. 

bakers,  90. 
Sureties,  bonds  to  be  given  as,    67,  68,  119, 
232,  234,  243,  251,  298. 


352 


City  Document  No.  80. 


Sureties  to  be  put  in  suit,  201,  240,  251,253, 

265. 
Surveyors  of  Boards,  see  Wood. 
Hemp,  see  Hemp. 
Highways,  see    Streets,  high- 
ways. 
"Wheat,  see  Breadstuffs. 

Tailors,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Tallow  Chandlers,  76. 
(See  also  Trades.) 
Tanners,  76,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Tar,  79. 

Taxes,  253,  254,  255,  261,  264,  265,  266,  267, 

287. 

collectors  of,  3,  26,  30,  53,  55,  61,  67, 

68,  112,  116,  117,  121, 

122,  142,  143,  144, 14S, 

155,  163,164,166,167, 

168,174,176,179,183, 

189,197,199,200,201, 

202,206,208,209,212, 

215,231,233,235,238, 

242,  243,249,250,251, 

252,  253,  254,  255,  256, 

260,  261,  262,  264,  267, 

268. 

premiums,  8,  55,  61,  68, 

119,  248,  316,  31S. 
choice  of,  3,   7, 112,  113, 
116,117,119,174,186, 
227,  240,  261,  262,  264, 
287,  295,  297. 
allowance    to,    68,    108, 

118,  240. 
petition     of,     197,    198, 
199. 
abatement  of,  7, 10,  26,  53,  54,  68,  114, 
117,121,  123,  183,  197,  198,  237,  248, 
249,  2-31,  253,  254,  262,  287,  297,  298, 
316,  318. 
tax  to  raise  to  defray  expenses  of  the 
town,  8,  10,  26,   73,  105,  120,  140, 
141,  142,  143,  144,  146,  149,  153,  154, 
108,182,201,211,213. 
lamp  tax,  333. 
state  tax,  8,  250,  260,  315. 
poll  tax,  8, 10,  14, 18,26,  27,  57,  67,  73, 
105,  120,  124,  140,  142,  146,  149,  154, 
168,  182,  206,  207,  211,  225,  238,  255, 
261,  264,  319,  334. 
real  estate,  10, 14, 18,  26, 27,  57,73, 105, 
120,  124,  140,  142,  146,  149,  154,  155, 
166,  182,  206,  207,211,  235,  238,  251, 
254,255,261,  264,319,334. 
commission,  121. 
method  of  levying  more  equitably,  56, 

60. 
rate  bills,  67,  179,  183,  207,  237,  242, 

252. 
tax  to  raise  to  obtain  supplies  for  the 

poor,  98, 120,  121,  190. 
of    non-residents   of  the   town,  157, 
198. 
residents  not  doing  business,  169. 
beef,  166,  201,  264. 
act  relative  to,  169. 
relative  to  present  mode  of  assessing 

and  colleetiug,  176,  179. 
Btate,  county  ami  town,  179,  182. 
one  standard  of  taxation,  179.  L82,  1*:'.. 
delinquents,  195,  212,  217,  262,  334. 
raised  for  repairs  of  streets,  235. 
lack  of  proper  lists  of  rateable  estates, 

265. 
list  of  persons  and  taxes  not  collected, 
to  furnish,  2sy. 
Tea,  38,  101. 
Teamsters,  79,  82,  86. 

'  S,'f  also  Trades.) 

Tender  Act  (Bo-called),  177. 

also  Act.) 


Thirteen  States,  the,  confederation  of,  216. 
Tinmen,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Titles  to  land,  56,  311,  314,  327. 

(See  also  Lands.) 
Town,  cleansing  of,  16. 

Clerk,  3,  47,  49,  60,  81,  85,  95,  96,  98, 
123,    125,  136, 142,  143,  144, 
149,  153,  159,   167,  184,  190, 
199,  206,  219,  244,  247,  251, 
253,  272,  274,  279,   291,  292, 
299,  301,318. 
pro  tern.,  Sfi,  S7. 
cho  ce  of,  107,  172,  226. 
to     furnish    the     Representa- 
tives with  attested  copy  of 
town's    resolution  relative 
to     return     of     renegades, 
28. 
attested  memorial  and  address 
to    the    Major-General    and 
Commander    of    the    army, 
40. 
to  have  150  votes   relative  to 

wood  printed,  96. 
salary  of,  149-50. 
copy  of  testimonial  to  present 
to  John  Hancock,  Esq.,  155. 
to    furnish  assessors  with    at- 
tested copies  of  vote,  199. 
to  have  address  to  the  Mar- 
quis    Fayette    and    his    re- 
ply published  in  the  several 
newspapers,  218. 
cryer,  144,  184. 
debit  and  credit  of  the,  7,53,  114,  177, 

181,  182,  201,  248,  249,  298. 
dock,  46,  305. 

abutters  on,  311,  314,316,   317, 

318,  326,  327. 
to  till  up,  311. 
expenses  of,  to  defray,  8,  10,  11,  148, 

149,  201. 
house,  61,  135. 

land,  raising  of  vegetables  upon,  60, 
114,  115,  118,  178,  180. 

lamps  to  be  again  lit  up,  327,  330. 

meetings,  1,2,  3,  7,  8,  9,  11,  12,  13,14, 
15,  16,  18,  19,  20,  21,  22,  24,  26,  27, 
28,  30,  31,  32,  34,  36,  37,  39,  43,  44, 
47,  48,  49,  51,  54,  56,  57,  58,  59,  61, 
62,  63,  65,  67,  68,  69,  70,  72,  73,  74, 
75,  76,  77,  80,  82,  83,  84,  85,  86,  87, 
89,  90,  91,  93,  94,  95,  97,  99,  100, 101 , 
102,  104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109,  111, 
113, 115, 118, 120, 122,  124,  125, 135, 

150,  152,  153,  155,  156,  158,  160,  165, 
169,  170,  172, 192,  200,  204,  211,  218, 
219,  224,  226,  227,  228,  241,  242,  244, 
246,  261,  265,  267,  270,  273,  275,  276, 
277,  289,  291,  307,  309,  319,  321,  323, 
325. 

officers,  126,  251,  299,  301. 

choice  of,  3-0,  7,  49,  108,  109, 
110,  111,  112,   128,    172-75, 
177,  178,180,184,  185,   186, 
187,  193,   226-233,   292-293, 
295-301,  329. 
time  of   service  of,   to  limit, 
126. 
quota  of  men  called   for,  from  the, 
for  the  continental  army,   19,  140, 
156,  160,  161,  163,  170,  191,  194,  195, 
196,  198,  204,  205,  206,  209,  235,  2:;ii, 
238,  241,  243,  244,  268,  269. 
statistics  of,  194. 
arms  assigned  to,  59,  231. 
proportion  of  fines,  174,  176,  180,  181, 

189,  195. 
quota  of  supplies  for  the  army,  249. 
records,  26,  32,   60,  73,   98,    116,  117, 

144,317. 
resolves,  92,  99. 
(See  also  Laws.) 


Index  to  Places  and  Subjects. 


353 


Town  treasurer,  4,  7,  14,  18,  25,  51,  57,  64, 
68,  69,  71,  86,  105,105,  112, 
113,  118,  119,  140,  146,  147, 
153,  154,  164,  166, 167,  168, 
176,  177,  ISO,  181,  1S2,  187, 
188,  189,  190,  195,  199,  201, 
202,  206,  208,  221,  222,  232, 
234,235,237,  239,240,  242, 
252, 265,  269,  2S6,  287,  293- 
94,  298,  300,  316,  321,  331, 
333. 
allowance  to,  71,  119. 
books   of,   26,  116,  118,  223, 

248,  256,  315,  316,  318. 
to  receive  subscriptions,  38, 

41. 
to    issue    negotiable  notes, 
18,   27,  38,  57,   61,  64,  98, 
104,  105,    126,  141-42,  146, 
167,  168,  242,  252. 
monies  to  deposit  with,  42. 
to  draw  on,  for,  42, 
68,  69, 114,  124,  221, 
240. 
to  open  new  set  of  books, 

201. 
resignation  of,  227. 
choice  of  new,  227. 

bonds  of  232,  234. 
thanks  to  old,  for  services, 
227. 
to  supply  with    provisions,  etc.,  89, 
92,  93,  95. 
wood,  93,  96. 
grain,  101,  140. 
security  of  the,  at  night,    measures 

for,  326,  327,  329. 
watch,  211,  221,222,274. 
(See  also  Watch.) 
Town's  title  to  its  real  estate,  56. 
valuation,  180. 
(See  also  Lands.) 
Trade,  13,  214,  215,  323. 

decline  of,  10,  215. 

illicit,  157, 187,  270,  271,  272,  273,  274. 

275. 
preservation  of,  215,  314. 
income  by,  264. 
Traders,  92,  94,  99. 

to  furnish  account  of  all  sales,  etc., 

90. 
to  wait  on,  90,  91. 

bakers,  35,  46,  92,  266,  2617. 
butchers,  76,  81,  82. 
tanners,  76. 

leather  dressers,  76,  79. 
tallow  chandlers,  76. 
soap  boilers,  76. 
ship-carpenters,  79,  215. 
carpenters,  79. 
caulkers,  79,  215. 
riggers,  79,  215. 
ship  joiners,  79,  215. 
housewrights,  79. 
masons,  79. 
blacksmitbs,  79. 
block  makers,  79,  215. 
carvers,  79. 
cabiuet-makers,  79. 
pewterers,  79. 
printers,  79- 
ropemakers,  79. 
boat  builders,  79,  215. 
coopers,  79. 
cordwainers,  79. 
tinmen,  79. 
sailmakers,  79,  215. 
tanners,  79. 
hatters,  79,  87,  97. 
barbers,  79. 
hair  dressers,  79. 
tailors,  79. 
painters,  79. 


Trades  : 

truckmen,  79. 
farriers,  79. 
glaziers,  79. 
card  makers,  79. 
hucksters,  80. 
fishmongers,  80. 
goldsmiths,  80. 
teamsters,  82,  86. 
sugar  bakers,  90. 
Traitors,  see  Renegades. 
Treasurer,  town,  see  Town. 

county,  6,   51,  110,  113,  116,  117, 

118,  174,  175,  227,  237,  294. 
state,  67,  113,  116,  117,  118,   122, 
199,  237. 
Treasury,  state,  8,  55,  67,  116,  117,  118,  121, 
123,  157,  249,  269. 
town,  53,  55,  116,  117, 118, 121,  123, 
140,  165,  166,  211,  213,  231,  235, 
238,  240,  248,  250,  259,  298. 
county,  53,  55,  116,  117,  118,  121, 
298. 
Treaty  of  Peace,  214,  216,  217,  219. 
Troops,  1,  2,  19,  106,  107,  108,  140,  170,  171, 
258,  259,  276,  278,  289-90. 
soldiers'    families,    to  provide   for, 

8,  10,  11,  14,  68,  115,  124,  249. 
names  of  non  commissioned  officers 

and  soldiers  to  ascertain,  11. 
statistics  of,  11,  19. 
Col.  Craft's  Regiment,  15. 
Boston  Regiment,  16,  141,  171,  172, 

328. 
Twenty-ninth  regiment,  1,  2,  47,  48, 
49,  106,  107,  108,  170,  224,  225,  226, 
290,  291. 
drafting  of  men,  16. 
state  artillery,  77. 
illegal  inlisti'ng  of,  238-39,  241. 
Truckmen,  79. 

(See  also  Trades.) 
Turk's  Island,  92. 

(See  also  Islands.) 
Turpentine,  79. 

Twenty-ninth  regiment,  1,  2,  47,  48,  49,  106, 
107,  108,  170. 
(See  also  Troops.) 

United  States,  216,  275,  276,  278,  279. 

Valuation  of  the  town,  180. 

Vegetables,  58,  60,  81,  114,  115, 118,  119,  120, 

178,  180,  181,  301,  302,  313. 
Visitation  of  schools,  300. 
Votes,  certain,  179,   182,  183,   185,   186,   199, 
246,  309. 
for  Governor,  Lieut. -Governor,  and 

six  Senators,  245,  307,  308. 
question  of  validity  of,  for  seven  rep- 
resentatives, 246. 

War,  prisoners  of,  at  large,  70,  71,  72. 
escape  of,  157. 
money  to  raise  to  carry  on  the,  140-41, 

142,  145,  146,  154. 
heavy  taxation  in  order  to  carry  on, 

179. 
importations  and  importations  during 

the,  214,  215,  216. 
board  of,  29,  32,  33,  231,  244,  326. 

certain  demands  of,  against  the 
town,  326,  327,  328. 
expenditures  owing  to  the,  249. 
committee  to  inquire  into,  249. 
statistics,  249. 
Wardens,  241,  281,  282,  283. 

choice  of,  3,  4,  7,  14,  50,  54,  109, 
173, 177,  178,  184,  185,  237,  238, 
277,  292-93,  294. 
excused  from  service,  13,  109,  122, 
178. 
not    to     be, 
116. 


354 


City  Document  No.  80. 


Wards  or  Precincts,  10,  '22,  30,  74,  75,  78,  82, 
105,  140,  161,  162,  163, 
165,  166,  190,  191,  266, 
267,  26S,  269,  28S,  301, 
305. 
quantity    of    flour    and 
other  necessities  in  the 
different,  36,  37,  3S. 
taxes   to   collect  in  the, 
67,  140,   143,  145,  182, 
266. 
military,  179,  182. 
subscriptions     for     the 
poor,   to  be  raised  in 
the,  190,  191,  205. 
Warrants,  1,  3,  S,  11,  14,  16,  18,  19,  21,  24,  26, 
27,  28,  29,  30,  36,  42,  45,  46,  47,  49,  54,  55, 
56,  57,  58,  59,  60,  61,  62,  63,  64,  65,  67,  69, 
70,  72,  73,  82,  84,  86,  87,  96,  98,  99,  102, 
103,  104,  105,  106,  108,  115,  120,  122,  124, 
125,  135,  136,  137,  138,  144,  150,  152,  155, 
157,  158,  160,  164,  165,   166,  169,  170,  172, 
178,  ISO,  181,  185,  187,  192,  194,  195,  196, 
197,  200,  203,  204,  205,  206,  208,  209,  211, 
212,  221,  224,  226,  228,  231,  235,  236,  244, 
246,  247,  248,  255,  261,  265,  266,  267,  268, 
269,  270,  271,  276,  277,  279,  286,  287,  289, 
292,  294,  298,  299,  300,  301,  307,  309,  310, 
311,  316,  319,  320,  321,  323,  325,  326,  327, 
328,  329,  330,  331,  332. 
Waste  land,  see  Lands. 

Watch,  143,  144,  153,  155,  163,  174,  175,  176, 
179,  183,  184,  186,  188,  189,  191,  192, 
198,  203,  210,  227,  229,  233,  239,  251. 
constables  of,  22,  53,  59,  73,  97,  105, 
112,  116,  118,  120,  121,  123,  124,  136, 
241,  242,  243,  293,  299,  301,  305,  306, 
309,  320,  329,  330. 
at  New  Boston,  106. 

to  reinstate,  106. 
fuel  and  candles  for,  330. 
payment  of,  210,  269,  330. 
houses,  329,  330,  332. 
town.  211,  221,  222,  274. 
additional,  327,  332. 
Water  street,  303. 

(See  also  Streets.) 
Ways  and  Means,  Committee  on,  180. 

to  appoint, 

176,  182, 

185. 

duties    of, 

176. 

West  Boston,  15. 

hospital  at,  15. 
waste  land  at,  60. 
watch  at,  106. 

town's   land   at,   96,    118,  180, 
181. 
India  goods,  79,  101. 

importations,  215. 


West  Indies,  7S,  323. 

(See  also  Islands.) 
Weymouth,  93,  94. 
Wharves,  37,  93. 

wharfingers  to  report  amount  of 
wood  on  their  re- 
spective,  37. 
orders  to,  85. 
report  of,  38. 
prices  allowed,  79. 
cording,  79. 
sealing,  79. 
carrying  off  wood, 
79. 
Oliver's  dock,  301,  303,  325,  329. 
Curtis'  wharf,  310. 
Bell's,  92. 
Wheat,  see  Breadstuff's. 
Will  of  the  late  Justice  Pemberton,  relative 

to  the,  189. 
Willis's  Paper,  85. 

(See  also  Newspapers.) 
Wine,  98,  100. 
Winnisimit  Ferry,  to  repair,  72. 

(See  also  Ferries.) 
Wood,  82,  97,  302,  303. 

to  provide  for  families  of  non-com. 
missioned  officers  and  soldiers,  10. 
surveyors  or  sealers  or  measurers  of, 
5,11,94,  96,99,  110,  111, 
229,  232. 
allowance  to,  96. 
to  provide  for  the  poor,  29. 
wharfingers  to  report  quantity,  on 
wharves,  37. 
report  of,  38. 
market  for,  301 
cord,  38,  85,  86. 
boards,   surveyors   of,   51,  111,   136, 

174, 178,  130,  295,  296,  301. 
staves,  215. 

cullers  of,  52,  111,   175,   230, 
296,  329. 
fire,  84,  85,  93,  94. 
to  measure,  86,  96. 
sale  of,  to  limit,  86. 
town  to  supply  with  fire-wood,  93, 

96. 
price  of,  94. 

to  limit  supply  of,  86,  96. 
votes  relative    to    sale  of,  to  print, 

96. 
building  with,  325, 
Workhouse,  the,  115,  119,  120. 
sum  to  order,  119. 

(See  also  Almshouse.) 
Writing  schools,  see  Schools. 
Writs,  127. 

of  habeas  corpus,  133. 
distress,  261. 


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